Filter cartridge arrangements and assemblies; preferred features; methods of assembly and use

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates to filter assemblies. The features described and characterized are typically applied in gas (for example, air) cleaner assemblies. A typical use is in air cleaner assemblies for vehicles or other equipment. The techniques described relate, at least in part, to provision of assemblies with preferred configurations for convenient servicing and operation, while ensuring a proper cartridge is appropriately positioned, oriented and secured for use. Many of the techniques relate to arrangements in which features at opposite ends of a housing and/or cartridge are eccentrically positioned as described.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 16/176,134,filed Oct. 31, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,646,810. U.S. Ser. No.16/176,134 is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 14/892,846, filed Nov. 20,2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,118,120. U.S. Ser. No. 14/892,846 is a U.S.National Stage from PCT/US2014/040361, filed May 30, 2014. U.S. Ser. No.14/892,846 includes the disclosure of, with edits and additions: U.S.provisional 61/974,273, filed Apr. 2, 2014; U.S. provisional 61/832,269,filed Jun. 7, 2013; and, U.S. 61/829,666 filed May 31, 2013. Thecomplete disclosures of U.S. Ser. Nos. 16/176,134; 14/892,846;PCT/US2014/040361; U.S. provisionals 61/974,273; 61/832,269; and,61/829,666 are incorporated herein by reference. A claim of priority ismade to each of U.S. Ser. No. 16/176,134; U.S. Ser. No. 14/892,846;PCT/US2014/040361; 61/974,273; 61/832,269; and, 61/829,666, to theextent appropriate.

The present application also includes certain information, features andarrangements disclosed in U.S. Ser. No. 14/266,560, filed Apr. 30, 2014,now U.S. Pat. No. 9,387,425. The complete disclosure of U.S. Ser. No.14/266,560 is incorporated herein by reference. A claim of priority isalso made to U.S. Ser. No. 14/266,560 to the extent appropriate.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to filter assemblies. The featuresdescribed and characterized are typically applied in gas (for example,air) cleaner assemblies. A typical use is in air cleaner assemblies forvehicles or other equipment. The techniques described relate, at leastin part, to provision of assemblies with preferred configurations forconvenient servicing and operation, while ensuring a proper cartridge isappropriately positioned, oriented and secured for use.

BACKGROUND

Filter assemblies are used to filter a variety of materials, includinggaseous fluids (gas or air filters, or crankcase ventilation filters)and liquid materials (liquid filters such as oil filters, fuel filters,hydraulic filters and water filters). The techniques described hereinare particularly useful for application with respect to gas filters suchas air cleaners, for example of the type used to filter combustionintake air for internal combustion engines of a variety of vehicles andother equipment such as: trucks; buses; off road construction equipment;agriculture equipment; generator sets; etc. However the techniques canbe applied in other applications.

Air cleaners, of the type of concern here, typically include a housingwith a removable and replaceable main filter cartridge positionedtherein. In some instances they may be used with a secondary or safetyfilter cartridge.

The housings typically include at least one service or access cover forselected access to the internally received filter cartridge(s) forservicing. A filter cartridge is typically serviced by being removed andeither: by being replaced with factory new cartridge; by beingrefurbished and being reinstalled; or, by being replaced with apreviously used, but refurbished, cartridge.

Issues relating to air cleaner arrangements with serviceable filtercartridges include: ensuring proper installation and sealing; obtainingappropriate support for the filter cartridge within the air cleaner,against unintended motion or movement; ensuring proper air (fluid) flowthrough the system in use; providing for convenient servicing; and/or,ensuring that the air cleaner housing is protected against improperinstallation of a filter cartridge.

Improvements in air cleaner assemblies and filter cartridges therefor,which are directed to these issues, are described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view an example filter cartridgeincluding features according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a schematic side elevational view of the cartridge depicted inFIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a schematic selected cross-sectional view of the filtercartridge depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 is a schematic top plan view of the filter cartridge depicted inFIGS. 1-3.

FIG. 5 is a schematic bottom plan view of the filter cartridge depictedin FIGS. 1-4.

FIG. 6 is a schematic enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view of anidentified portion of the filter cartridge of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a liner member or componentuseable in the assembly of the filter cartridge of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a schematic second perspective view of a modified version ofthe liner member or component of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a schematic closed end view of the liner member or componentof FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a schematic side elevational view of an air cleaner assemblywith which the filter cartridge of FIG. 1 is useable.

FIG. 11 is a schematic second side elevational view of the air cleanerassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a schematic third side elevational view of the air cleanerassembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 13 is a schematic outlet end view of the air cleaner assembly ofFIG. 10-12.

FIG. 14 is a schematic outlet end perspective view of the air cleanerassembly of FIGS. 10-13.

FIG. 15 is a schematic bottom plan view of the air cleaner assembly ofFIGS. 10-14.

FIG. 16 is a schematic fragmentary cross-sectional view depicting aportion of a filter cartridge in accord with FIGS. 1-3 in sealingengagement with a portion of an air cleaner assembly.

FIG. 17 is a schematic fragmentary cross-sectional view depicting asecond portion of a filter cartridge in accord with FIGS. 1-3 in sealingengagement with a portion of a housing.

FIG. 18 is a schematic fragmentary cross-sectional view analogous toFIG. 17, and showing additional portions of the filter cartridge and aircleaner assembly.

FIG. 19 is a schematic first depiction of a perimeter projectionalignment in accord with the present description.

FIG. 20 is a schematic second depiction of a perimeter projectionalignment in accord with the present description.

FIG. 21 is a schematic third depiction of a perimeter projectionalignment in accord with the present description.

FIG. 22 is a schematic fourth depiction of a perimeter projectionalignment in accord with the present description.

FIG. 23 is a schematic fifth depiction of a perimeter projectionalignment in accord with the present description.

FIG. 24 is a schematic depiction of an alternate housing end capperimeter usable with a cartridge according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 is a schematic depiction of an alternate seal perimeterdefinition usable with a cartridge according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 26 is a schematic fragmentary cross-sectional view analogous toFIG. 16, depicting positioning of an optional secondary filter or safetycartridge within the assembly.

FIG. 27 is a schematic fragmentary cross-sectional view analogous toFIG. 26, depicting an alternate positioning of an optional secondary orsafety cartridge within the assembly.

FIG. 28 is a schematic cross-sectional view depicting positioning of asafety filter cartridge within an assembly in accord with FIGS. 29-54.

FIG. 29 is a schematic side elevational view of an air cleaner housingbody usable in an air cleaner assembly according to the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 30 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the housing body ofFIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of an air cleaner assemblyhaving a housing body (in accord with FIGS. 29 and 30) an access cover,and including a filter cartridge therein.

FIG. 32 is a second schematic cross-sectional view of the assembly ofFIG. 31.

FIG. 33 is a schematic perspective view of a section of a housing bodyusable in the air cleaner assembly of FIGS. 31 and 32.

FIG. 34 is a schematic side elevational view of the housing body sectionof FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a schematic top plan view of the housing body section ofFIGS. 33-34.

FIG. 36 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the housing body sectionof FIG. 35, taken along line 36-36 thereof.

FIG. 37 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the housing body sectionof FIG. 35, taken along line 37-37 thereof.

FIG. 38 is an enlarged fragmentary schematic cross-sectional view of aportion of a projection member of the body section of FIG. 35; the viewof FIG. 38 being taken along line 38-38, FIG. 35.

FIG. 39 is a schematic top perspective view of an access cover that canbe secured to the body section of FIGS. 29-30 to provide the air cleanerassembly of FIGS. 31-32.

FIG. 40 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the access cover ofFIG. 39.

FIG. 41 is a schematic top plan view of the access cover of FIGS. 39-40.

FIG. 42 is a schematic bottom plan view of the access cover of FIGS.39-40.

FIG. 43 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the access cover of FIG.39-40, taken along line 43-43, FIG. 41.

FIG. 44 is a second schematic cross-sectional view of the access coverof FIGS. 39-40, the view of FIG. 44 being taken along line 44-44, FIG.41.

FIG. 45 is a schematic side elevational view of a filter cartridgeinstallable in the air cleaner assembly of FIGS. 31 and 32.

FIG. 46 is a schematic bottom plan view of the cartridge of FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 45taken generally along line 47-47, FIG. 46.

FIG. 48 is a schematic top plan view of the cartridge of FIG. 45.

FIG. 48A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG.48, taken along line 48A-48A thereof.

FIG. 49 is a schematic perspective view of a liner support or linercomponent usable in forming the cartridge of FIG. 45.

FIG. 50 is a schematic top end plan view of the liner component of FIG.49.

FIG. 51 is a schematic side elevational view of the liner component ofFIGS. 49-50.

FIG. 52 is a second schematic side elevational view of the linercomponent of FIGS. 49-50.

FIG. 53 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken generally along line53-53, FIG. 50.

FIG. 54 is a schematic depiction of a step of attempting to wronglyinsert a cartridge in accord with FIG. 47 into a housing body in accordwith FIGS. 29 and 30.

FIG. 55 is a schematic cross-sectional view analogous to FIG. 54,showing potential results of further efforts of installation.

FIG. 56 is a schematic cross-sectional view analogous to FIGS. 54 and55, depicting a potential outcome of still further efforts at incorrectinstallation.

FIG. 57 is a schematic open end perspective view of an alternatecartridge in accord with the principles of the present disclosure.

FIG. 57A is a first schematic cross-sectional view of the filtercartridge of FIG. 57.

FIG. 57B is a second schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge ofFIG. 57; the view of FIG. 57B being taken approximately at a right angleto the view of FIG. 57A.

FIG. 57C is a schematic perspective view of the component of the filtercartridge of FIG. 57.

FIG. 58 is an alternate schematic open end perspective view of thefilter cartridge of FIG. 57.

FIG. 59 is a schematic top view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 57.

FIG. 60 is a schematic bottom view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 57.

FIG. 60A is a second schematic bottom view of the bottom view of thefilter cartridge of FIG. 57.

FIG. 61 is a schematic projection depiction of example eccentricityusable in the filter cartridge of FIGS. 57-60A.

FIG. 62 is a schematic side elevational view of an air cleaner assemblyincluding a filter cartridge in accord with FIGS. 57-60.

FIG. 63 is a second schematic side elevational view of the air cleanerassembly of FIG. 62; the view of FIG. 63 being opposite to the view ofFIG. 62.

FIG. 64 is a third schematic side elevational view of the air cleanerassembly of FIGS. 62 and 63; the view of FIG. 64 being taken toward theleft side of FIG. 62, or the right side of FIG. 63.

FIG. 65 is a schematic bottom view of the air cleaner assembly of FIGS.62-64.

FIG. 66 is a schematic perspective view of the air cleaner assembly ofFIGS. 62-65, taken toward an open end of an interiorly receivedcartridge and with an access cover removed.

FIG. 67 is a first schematic inside perspective view of an access covermountable on the assembly of FIG. 66 to form the air cleaner assembly ofFIGS. 62-65.

FIG. 68 is a second schematic inside perspective view of the accesscover of FIG. 67.

FIG. 69 is a schematic inside perspective view of a housing closed endcomponent of the assembly of FIGS. 62-65.

FIG. 70 is an alternate schematic inside perspective view of the housingclosed end component of FIG. 69.

FIG. 71 is a schematic bottom view of the housing closed end componentof FIGS. 69 and 70.

FIG. 72 is a schematic first cross-sectional view of the air cleanerassembly of FIGS. 62-65.

FIG. 73 is a schematic second cross-sectional view of the air cleanerassembly of FIGS. 62-65; the cross-sectional view of FIG. 72 being takenat a right angle to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 71.

FIG. 74 is a schematic view depicting a cartridge with FIG. 57 beingaligned with a housing closed end component in accord with FIG. 69.

FIG. 75 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view of a portion ofFIG. 72.

FIG. 76 is a schematic perspective view of a housing access cover inaccord with FIG. 68 being aligned with a filter cartridge in accord withFIG. 57.

FIG. 77 is an enlarged exploded fragmentary perspective view of a filtercartridge having selected alternate closed end cap features in accordwith an additional embodiment of the present disclosure, shown beinginserted into alignment with the housing bottom also having alternatefeatures in accord with the present disclosure.

FIG. 77A is an enlarged fragmentary schematic view taken toward aprojection component on the cartridge of FIG. 77.

FIG. 77B is an enlarged fragmentary schematic view of a selectedreceiver member on a housing bottom in accord with FIG. 77.

FIG. 78 is a fragmentary perspective view analogous to FIG. 77, butshowing an alternate, reverse, positioning of certainprojection/receiver members in accord with an alternate embodiment.

FIG. 79 is a schematic side elevational view of an air cleaner assemblyincluding certain alternate features to selected ones of previouslydepicted arrangements.

FIG. 80 is a schematic second side elevational view of the assemblydepicted in FIG. 79 with portions broken away to show internal detail incross-section; the view of FIG. 80 being from the left of the view ofFIG. 79.

FIG. 81 is a schematic top plan view of the assembly of FIGS. 79 and 80.

FIG. 82 is a schematic exploded view of the assembly of FIGS. 79-81.

FIG. 83 is a schematic perspective view of an additional filtercartridge embodying selected features of the present disclosure.

FIG. 84 is a schematic open end plan view of the cartridge of FIG. 83.

FIG. 85 is a schematic closed end plan view of the cartridge of FIG. 83.

FIG. 86 is a schematic first side elevational view of the cartridge ofFIG. 83.

FIG. 87 is a second schematic side elevational view of the cartridge ofFIG. 83.

FIG. 88 is a schematic perspective view of an alternate housing for usein an air cleaner assembly with a filter cartridge in accord withselected principles of the present disclosure; the view of FIG. 88showing portions broken away to depict internal detail.

FIG. 89 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the housing of FIG. 88depicted with an access cover removed and with a filter cartridgeinstalled.

FIG. 90 is a schematic perspective cross-sectional view of the assemblyof FIG. 88 depicted with a cartridge and access cover in place; in FIG.90 portions being broken away to depict internal detail.

FIG. 90A is a schematic end side perspective view of an access cover ofthe assembly of FIGS. 88-90.

FIG. 90B depicts engagement between an access cover and a housingcentral portion.

FIG. 91 is a second schematic perspective cross-sectional view of theassembly of FIG. 90; in FIG. 91, portions being broken away to depictinternal detail.

FIG. 92 is a schematic perspective view of a lower portion of thehousing of the assembly of FIGS. 88-91.

FIG. 92A is an enlarged fragmentary view of an identified portion ofFIG. 92.

FIG. 93 is a schematic cross-sectional top perspective view of thefilter cartridge portion of the assembly of FIGS. 88-91.

FIG. 94 is a schematic top perspective cross-sectional view of thefilter cartridge portion of FIG. 93 shown installed in association withthe housing portion of FIG. 92 for the assembly of FIGS. 88-91.

FIG. 95 is a second schematic top perspective cross-sectional view ofthe assembly portion of FIG. 94; the cross-sectional view being at alower location.

FIG. 96 is a schematic enlarged, fragmentary top view of an end portionof a projection in a housing bottom for the assembly of FIGS. 89-91.

FIG. 97 is a schematic fragmentary cross-sectional view of a lowerportion of an assembly in accord with FIGS. 88-91.

FIG. 98 is a schematic enlarged fragmentary view of a portion of FIG.97.

FIG. 99 is an alternate, second, schematic, enlarged fragmentaryschematic view of a portion of FIG. 97.

FIG. 100 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the filter cartridgedepicted in the assembly of FIG. 90.

FIG. 100A is a schematic top perspective view of a preformed supportcomponent of the filter cartridge of FIG. 100.

FIG. 100B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the preform supportcomponent of FIG. 100A.

FIG. 101 is a schematic perspective view of a filter cartridge in accordwith FIG. 83, depicted in association with a housing component.

FIG. 102 is a schematic perspective view of a filter cartridge in accordwith FIG. 83 in association with a first alternate housing component.

FIG. 103 is a schematic perspective view of a filter cartridge in accordwith FIG. 83, depicted in association with a second alternate housingcomponent.

FIG. 104 is a schematic perspective view of a filter cartridge with FIG.83 in association with a third alternate housing component.

FIG. 105 is a schematic perspective view of a filter cartridge in accordwith FIG. 82, in association with a fifth alternate housing component.

SUMMARY

According to the present disclosure, selected features of filtercartridge arrangements and assemblies are provided. Also methods ofassembly and use are provided. The techniques and features areparticularly applicable in the context of an air filter cartridge usedwith, or for use with, an air cleaner assembly. Alternate applicationsof selected techniques described herein are possible, however.

The techniques described can be used to provide for various advantagesrelating to such issues as: ensuring proper installation and sealing ofa filter cartridge within an air cleaner assembly; obtaining appropriatesupport for the filter cartridge within the air cleaner, againstunintended motion or movement; ensuring proper air (or gas) flow throughthe system, i.e. through the air (gas) cleaner, in use; providing forconvenient servicing; and/or ensuring that the (air) cleaner housing isprotected against improper installation of a filter cartridge. There isno specific requirement that the features and techniques be applied in amanner to obtain all of the advantages. However, various example systemscharacterized in the drawings do accomplish these advantages.

A variety of individually advantageous features and techniques aredescribed. There is no specific requirement that they all be applied toobtain some advantage. Thus, many specific features can be viewed asoptional, to obtain additional advantage.

In a first type of example systems characterized, a filter cartridge isprovided with filter media surrounding an open filter interior. Thefilter media has first and second ends, each of which defines a mediaperimeter adjacent opposite end pieces. In the first types of examplefilters, the media perimeters (at opposite ends) are eccentricallyaligned in the cartridge, in accord with characterizations made herein.

A variety of techniques are characterized which relate to eccentricpositioning (aligning) of features at opposite ends of the cartridgerelative to one another, when used according to the present disclosure.In the previous paragraph, an example was characterized in which aperimeter portion of the media adjacent each end piece defineseccentrically positioned or aligned patterns. Other features at oppositeends of the media (that can be used in addition, or alternately, toprovide eccentric positioning or alignment to advantage) includeselected features of end pieces at opposite ends of the cartridge and/orhousing engagement members positioned at opposite ends of the cartridge.

Advantageous air cleaners and air cleaner housing arrangements are alsocharacterized. Further, methods of assembly and use are characterized.

While many of the features relate to eccentric positioning of featuresat opposite ends of the cartridge, there is no specific requirement ofsuch eccentric positioning in order to obtain an advantage according tocertain of the techniques characterized herein. This will be apparentfrom certain of the following characterizations.

There is no specific requirement that an arrangement include all of theadvantageous features characterized herein in order to obtain someadvantage according to the present disclosure. Further, there is nospecific requirement that the described techniques, when applied, beapplied to obtain all of the advantages possible with techniquesaccording to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

I. Features of an Advantageous Filter Cartridge; and, Methods ofAssembly, FIGS. 1-9

A. General Cartridge Features

An example filter cartridge providing an indication of how theprinciples characterized herein can be embodied is indicated in FIGS.1-6. As will be understood from discussions relating to possiblevariations described herein below, the depictions of FIGS. 1-6 providean example of a useful embodiment. The principles can be embodied in avariety of alternate forms.

Referring to FIG. 1, a filter cartridge 1 is depicted. In general, thefilter cartridge 1 comprises an extension of media 2 extending between afirst media end 3 and an opposite second media end 4. For the particularexample depicted, the media 2 is configured surrounding an open filterinterior 7.

The media 2 generally extends between: a first end piece (cap) 10,positioned at the first media end 3; and, a second end piece (cap) 11,positioned at the opposite second end 4 of the media 2.

For the example filter cartridge 1 depicted, the first end piece 10 isan open-end end piece 15 having a central air flow aperture 16therethrough, in flow communication with the open filter interior 7.This will be typical.

For the example cartridge 1 depicted, the second end piece 11 ispreferably a closed end piece 18. By the term “closed” in this context,it is meant that the end piece 11 does not have an aperture therethroughthat is in flow communication with the open filter interior 7; i.e.through which flow can occur that also flows through flow aperture 16.Alternatives are possible, and, in some instances, the end piece 11 canbe constructed as an open end piece. However, a closed end piece 18 istypical and preferred for many applications characterized herein.

Still referring to FIG. 1, typically the cartridge 1 will be configuredfor “out-to-in” flow during filtering. By this, it is meant thatfiltering flow generally occurs from an outer perimeter 2 o of the media2 to an inner media perimeter 2 i surrounding open interior 7. Alternateor reverse flow is possible in some applications of the techniquesdescribed herein, however.

Of course when the cartridge 1 is configured for out-to-in flow throughthe media 2 during filtering, aperture 16 will be an outlet aperture 16o.

In a typical application for air filtration, the media 2 will be pleatedin extension between ends 3 and 4; i.e., the media 2 will be pleatedmedia 2 a comprising a plurality of pleats surrounding the interior 7.This provides for a relatively high media area within a selected volume,which is advantageous for cartridge lifetime and efficiency. A varietyof media types can be chosen for the media 2, from media materialscurrently available and in use, or from those yet to be developed. Oftenthe media 2 chosen will be cellulose fiber media, but alternatives arepossible. The media can be provided with a surface treatment such as afine fiber or other material thereon, if desired, to advantage.

Referring to FIG. 1, the cartridge 1 depicted is shown with an optionaladhesive bead 20 thereon, surrounding the media 2 and engaging outerpleat tips. The bead 20 will help secure outer pleat tips in properposition, orientation, and spacing during use.

The filter cartridge 1 can be provided with an optional outer liner 21surrounding an outer perimeter 2 o of the media 2. Such liners are wellknown for other types of cartridges, and similarly can be applied foruse with cartridges such as cartridge 1. A variety of liners alreadyknown that can be used include: expanded metal liners; perforated metalliners; porous plastic liners; and, a variety of other arrangements. Aparticularly useful outer liner for cartridge 1, is a flexible plasticnet construction 21 x, for example comprising polyethylene. Such astretchable outer liner can help provide for protection to integrity ofthe media 2 during shipping and handling. Substantially rigid structuralsupport (not provided by a flexible net liner) is typically not ofsubstantial concern, however, when the arrangement is configured forout-to-in flow during filtering, since the air pressure during usegenerally pushes the media 2 inwardly rather than outwardly. Dependingon the type of material chosen for the liner 21, the liner can bepositioned underneath the bead 20 or over the bead 20.

Typically, especially when used with out-to-in flow arrangements, thecartridge 1 will preferably be provided with an inner liner or supportstructure 24, around which the media 2 is positioned. The inner liner orsupport structure 24 generally comprises a relatively rigid structurethat extends between the media ends 3,4 and the end pieces 10,11, toprovide structural support to the media 2. The inner liner 24 cancomprise a variety of materials including metal or plastic. For typicalapplications of the present techniques, the inner liner 24 will often bea molded plastic construction as discussed below.

As thus far characterized, the cartridge 1 has been described with thefeatures applied in a wide variety of filter arrangements, including airfilter arrangements. Examples including such features are unitscharacterized in: U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,652,614; 6,837,920; 6,986,805;7,291,198; 7,572,310; 7,981,187; 7,070,642; 7,988,757; 7,662,203;8,216,335; 8,394,166; 7,524,349; 7,981,186; 8,292,984; 8,066,791,incorporated herein by reference.

B. Selected Advantageous Cartridge Features

Attention is now directed to FIG. 2, in which like reference numeralsindicate features already characterized. From a review of FIG. 2, anunderstanding of some of the manners in which the depicted cartridge 1distinguishes many previous cartridges such those in references U.S.Pat. Nos. 6,652,614; 6,837,920; 6,986,805; 7,291,198; 7,572,310;7,981,187; 7,070,642; 7,988,757; 7,662,203; 8,216,335; 8,394,166;7,524,349; 7,981,186; 8,292,984; 8,066,791, identified above, can beunderstood.

For example, the cartridge 1 includes selected features at opposite endsthat can be defined as “eccentric” or “eccentrically aligned orpositioned” in end view or axial projection (i.e. in projection in aplane perpendicular to a shortest (axial) direction between end pieces10, 11). The cartridge 1 depicted includes a variety of features thatcan be characterized in this manner. There is no specific requirement,however, that all features depicted and characterized herein aspotentially being eccentric be implemented in an eccentric manner, in acartridge, to obtain some advantage according to the present disclosure.This will be apparent from descriptions herein that relate tooperational advantages of the eccentrically aligned features.

Referring to FIG. 2, media end 3 immediately adjacent to, or embedded inend piece 10, can be characterized as having an outer perimeter 3 p,defined by one or more of: the outer liner 21, FIG. 1; and the outerpleat tips 2 t. The perimeter 3 p can be characterized as surrounding acenter, indicated at 3 c, and defined by axis 3 x. Center 3 c may becharacterized as a first center c₁.

At end 4, the media 2 can be characterized as having an outer perimeter4 p also defined by the outer liner 21, FIG. 1; and/or, the outer pleattips 2 t, which perimeter 4 p surrounds a center 4 c, defined by centralaxis 4 x. Center 4 c may be characterized as a second center c₂.

As can be seen from inspection from FIG. 2, with respect to the outerperimeters at 3 p, 4 p, the opposite ends 4, 3, are eccentric relativeto one another. That is, while each outer perimeter 3 p, 4 p, surroundsand defines a center (3 c, 4 c, respectively) those centers (3 c, 4 c)are offset or eccentrically aligned with respect to one another, whenviewed in end view, i.e. when projected into a plane perpendicular to ashortest direction between the ends 3, 4, or end pieces 10, 11. Aportion of this offset, eccentricity or eccentric alignment is indicatedin the plane of projection of the side cross-sectional view of FIG. 2,at dimension A.

Eccentricity (eccentric alignment) between features at opposite ends atcartridge 1, as discussed in greater detail below, can be used toprovide advantage in use of the cartridge 1. It can be implemented in avariety of forms, and can be used, depending on how specificallyimplemented, to obtain one or more of a number of advantages. Among thepossible advantages that can be obtained, depending on how theeccentricity is specifically implemented, are one or more of thefollowing:

-   -   1. Performance advantages in use;    -   2. Preferred secure engagement of the cartridge within a        housing;    -   3. Advantage in ensuring that the cartridge is a proper one for        the housing of concern; and,    -   4. Ensuring a preferred flow pattern of air within the housing        during use.

It is noted that there is no specific requirement that featurescharacterized herein be implemented to obtain all the advantagescharacterized above. Rather, they can be optionally implemented toobtain one or more of the advantages, depending on the circumstances.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a top plan view ofcartridge 1, taken toward end piece 10. At 3 c, the center of an outerperimeter 3 p (FIG. 2) of the media 2 at end 3 is shown in projection;and, at 4 c a center of the media outer perimeter 4 p (FIG. 2) at end 4of the media 2 is shown in projection. Thus, FIG. 4 is a form ofprojection as characterized herein above. It can be seen that the offsetor eccentricity Z between centers 3 c and 4 c can be characterized (inthe example) in two dimensions (in the plane of projection) by offset Kand offset L respectively. This would lead to a conclusion of a lineardimension or distance (Z) of offset or eccentric alignment correspondingto the square root of (L²+K²).

Still referring to FIG. 4, attention is directed to end piece 10.Projecting from end piece 10, i.e. toward the viewer in the orientationof FIG. 4, are provided a plurality of optional spaced projections 23.The projections 23 are contact projections for an end of a housing, forexample access cover, when the cartridge 1 is installed and willtypically be formed from a compressible resilient material from whichportions of end piece 15 are also formed. Typically, the projections 23are formed integral with other molded-in-place portions of the end piece15, as described below. In the particular cartridge 1 depicted, theprojections 23 form a projection member that comprises spacedprojections 23. In some applications, the projections 23 can be joinedto one another, forming a single continuous ring.

In FIG. 4, attention is also directed to cross section line 3-3, whichdefines the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3. Referring to FIG. 3, thecross-sectional view depicted provides further understanding ofadditional unique features of the cartridge 1.

Again, a characteristic of certain preferred applications of the presenttechnology, relates to eccentric positioning (alignment) of selectedfeatures at opposite ends of the cartridge 1. As indicated, this can beimplemented in a variety of ways, and can be characterized with respectto a variety of selected cartridge features. By the terms “eccentric”,“eccentric alignment” and variations thereof in this context, it isgenerally meant that centers (c₁, c₂) of the identified features [whenprojected into a plane perpendicular to a shortest direction between theopposite ends (3, 4) or end caps (10, 11)] are not aligned with oneanother, i.e., do not overlap, but rather are offset by a distance ateccentricity Z.

A first example of such eccentricity (or offset) was characterized abovein connection with a center 3 c of the outer perimeter 3 p of the media2 adjacent end 3; and, a center 4 c of the outer perimeter 4 p of mediaend 4, at opposite end 4 from end 3. In FIG. 3, the eccentricity isshown by locations 3 c and 4 c; and, the amount of offset in the planeof the cross-section depicted is shown at I.

It is noted that, with respect to the outer perimeter definitions 3 p, 4p, when the media 2 is pleated, reference is meant to a pattern definedby outer pleat tips, and minor variations from unevenly defined pleattips, or minor variations in pleat tip orientation, are meant to beignored.

The eccentricity in the cartridge 1 can be defined and/or provided inalternate ways. For example, it can be defined in some instances withrespect to end cap features rather than (or in addition to) mediafeatures.

An example of this can be understood by reviewing certain housingengagement features of the two end caps 10, 11, respectively. Referringfirst to end cap 10, FIG. 3, the end cap 10 preferably seals to ahousing feature, such as an access cover feature or other feature, by ahousing seal arrangement 34. A variety of housing seal arrangements canbe used. The particular housing seal arrangement 34 depicted is a radialseal arrangement 35. A housing radial seal or radial seal arrangement isgenerally an arrangement configured to provide sealing forces (inreleasable sealing engagement) generally directed toward or away from acentral axis X₁, around which the seal 35 extends. In this instance, thehousing radial seal arrangement 35 is circular, although alternativesare possible, such as oval or other arrangements. A center indicated byaxis X₁, then, is a center of a seal pattern defined by the sealarrangement 35. In this example, the housing seal arrangement 35 is anoutwardly directed housing radial seal 36, meaning that the seal surfaceof seal 35 faces radially outwardly away from axis X₁. The principlesdescribed can be applied with an inwardly directed radial seal, however,i.e. with a seal directed generally toward axis X₁.

Thus, referring to FIG. 3, it can be seen that the housing radial seal35 is an (outwardly directed) radial seal 36 in the example defining acircular pattern around a center defined by central axis X₁ that extendsperpendicularly through a center of a seal definition provided byhousing radial seal 35. This axis X₁ coincides with center 3 c and axis3 x since, in the example, the seal 36 and outer media perimeter 3 p atend 3 define concentric (or nearly concentric) circles.

Still referring to FIG. 3, it can be understood that in this example,the first housing seal member 35 is a seal member having a sealprojection perimeter in a plane orthogonal to a central axis x₁ of theseal pattern first end piece. By this it is meant that the housing sealmember 35, with respect to a plane therethrough, is orthogonal to thecentral axis X₁ rather than slanted thereto. Alternatives are possible.

The second end cap 11, FIG. 3, preferably engages a housing, wheninstalled, by an optional second housing or bottom engagementarrangement 40. The second (or bottom) housing engagement arrangement 40for the example depicted, is also radially directed, around a centralaxis X₂. In this instance, the direction of radial engagement isradially inward engagement, although alternatives are possible.

The radial engagement arrangement 40 can be a seal, but it is notrequired to be a seal since, in the example depicted, the end cap 11 isclosed, i.e., central region 11 c thereof is not open to allow passageof air into cartridge interior 7.

Typically, the second housing bottom or bottom engagement 40 is a not amere loose alignment or engagement. Rather, typically and preferably itis a “resistive” engagement arrangement. By the term “resistiveengagement arrangement” and variants as used herein, it is meant thatthe arrangement has some positive interaction that makes separation ofthe end cap 11 from the housing require applied force. Typical resistiveengagement arrangements will be ones in which a member 40 of the end cap10 is compressed into engagement with a portion of the housing. Thesewill be characterized as “compressive” engagement arrangements or bysimilar terms. Although such a compressive, resistive, engagementarrangement can be configured continuously to also form a seal when theend cap 11 is closed, there is no specific requirement of a seal at theengagement.

The engagement arrangement may be of a type characterized herein as an“interference” arrangement, or by similar terms, when an interferencefit between arrangement 40, and the housing is used either in additionalto, or instead of, a compressive engagement.

The pattern defined by (inner) perimeter 40 p of the second or bottomhousing engagement arrangement 40 can have a variety of shapes. Forexample, it can be circular. However, in the example cartridge 1depicted, the inner perimeter 40 p defined by second or bottom housingengagement arrangement 40 is oval, in the example generally elliptical.Since it is oval, its center will, in general, be definable at themidpoint of a longest bisecting line of the oval. In the exampledepicted, the center is indicated by central axis X₂, which alsocorresponds to defining the center 4 c of the outer perimeter 4 p of themedia 2, although alternatives are possible.

In projection, a center of a portion of housing seal arrangement 35defined by axis X₁ and a center of the second housing engagementarrangement 40 defined by axis X₂ are eccentric, i.e. are offset oreccentrically aligned relative to one another. That is, when projectedinto a plane perpendicular to the shortest direction between end pieces10, 11, the center X₁ of seal arrangement 35 and center X₂ of secondhousing engagement arrangement 40 do not align, but are offset by aneccentricity Z. Alternately stated, axes X₁ and X₂ are not coaxial. Whenprojected into the plane of the cross-section of FIG. 3, this offset oreccentricity is indicated by dimension I. Of course, in projection in aplane perpendicular to a shortest direction between end pieces 10 and11, the offset in two dimensions is shown by the offset by the centers 3c, 4 c, FIG. 4, by dimensions L and K, since the axes X₁ and X₂correspond to, and define, centers 3 c, 4 c, respectively, in theembodiment as shown. Alternatives are possible.

In the discussion provided thus far, with respect to eccentricpositioning of selected features of opposite end pieces 10, 11, thediscussion has been with respect to features that are used forengagement with the housing; in the example a radial seal at one end capand a radially directed housing engagement feature at the other. It isnoted that advantageous eccentricity can be defined by alternatefeatures on, or associated with, the two end caps or other cartridgefeatures at opposite ends. This is discussed below.

It is also noted that for the example depicted in FIG. 3, and describedherein, the media 2 is generally cylindrical. This will be typical,however, in some instances, the media can be configured, for example, ina somewhat conical pattern. Examples of such variations are alsodiscussed below.

C. Additional Features of Cartridge 1

Turning now to additional features of cartridge 1, FIGS. 1-3, attentionis directed to FIG. 3, and especially end piece 11. Again, end piece 11,in the example depicted, is, generally, a “closed” end piece 18. Thatis, it is not open to unfiltered flow of material therethrough, at anylocation that would allow unfiltered flow into interior 2 i and tooutlet flow aperture 16. Since the end piece 11 is characterized asclosed, its center 11 c, which extends across a region surrounded by themedia 2, is also closed.

In the example cartridge 1 depicted, a receiver projection or guidereceiver 45 is positioned as part of the closed end piece 11, withinhousing interior 7. The receiver projection 45 generally projects from alocation adjacent end 4 of the media toward end piece 10 and media end3, a distance corresponding to at least 10% of a distance between mediaends 3.4, typically at least 15% of that distance, usually at least 20%of that distance, and often an amount within the range of 25-60%,inclusive, for example 25-50%, inclusive, of that distance. Alternativesare possible, however.

Further, in a typical application, the receiver projection projects froma location adjacent end 4 toward end 3, a distance of at least 50 mm,usually at least 80 mm, often at least 100 mm, and typically an amountwithin the range of 100-280 mm inclusive (e.g. 100-250 mm, inclusive),often 120-250 mm, inclusive (e.g. 120-220 mm, inclusive).

Typically, the receiver projection 45 is configured so that an outer orexterior surface 45 x thereof (i.e., a surface on a side away from endpiece 10 and interior 2 i) surrounds or defines a receiver recess 46into which a guide projection in housing is received, duringinstallation of cartridge 1 in use. Structure to accomplish this, andoperational advantages and results, are discussed further below.

Similarly to the receiver projection, the receiver recess 46 alsotypically projects from a location adjacent end 4 the media toward endpiece 10 and media end 3, a distance corresponding to at least 10% of adistance between the media ends 3, 4, typically at least 15% of thatdistance, usually at least 20% of that distance and often an amountwithin the range of 25-60%, inclusive, for example 25-50%, inclusive, ofthat distance. Further, the recess 46 typically has a dimension ofextension or depth, from a location adjacent end 4 toward end 3, of atleast 50 mm, usually at least 80 mm, often at least 100 mm, andtypically an amount within the range of 100-250 mm inclusive (e.g.100-280 mm, inclusive), for example often 120-250 mm inclusive (e.g.120-220 mm, inclusive).

Still referring to FIG. 3, it is again noted that end piece 11,characterized above, is a closed end piece. In the terminology usedherein, the term “closed” is applicable in this context, in spite of thepresence of the recess 46, since projection 45 is itself closed andforms a portion of the closed interior region 11 c of end piece 11.Thus, air that enters recess 46, i.e. through aperture defined byengagement arrangement 40, cannot also pass through aperture 16 of endpiece 10.

The receiver projection 45, and the corresponding receiver recess 46,can be defined in a variety of shapes. For example, it can be conical.The particular example depicted shows a projection 45, viewable in FIG.4, and recess that have a tapering shape toward tip 45 t but with agenerally oval cross-section instead of circular. In some instances, itmay be desirable to configure the projection 45 and recess such thatthey have a shape such that can only receive a housing projectiontherein, in a single rotational orientation between the two. Thus, itmight be modified from an oval shape, for example by distorting a side.This is discussed further below.

Also, there is no specific requirement of a particular geometricconfiguration of each of the two features used for defining theeccentricity; nor, is there any requirement that the features of eachhave the same general geometric pattern or be different geometricpatterns from one another. This will be understood from some of thevariations discussed herein below. It is also noted that there is nospecific requirement that the media have the same pleat depth,constantly throughout its length, as shown in the example of FIG. 3;pleat depth being the distance between the outer pleat perimeter 2 p ortips 2 t and the inner pleat tips or perimeter 2 i. Variations arepossible.

D. Variations in Pleat Tip Definition

It is noted that herein geometric shapes defined by pleat tips have beenreferenced. The term is meant to refer a shape defined by a perimeterthat touches the various pleats tips, whether it is by reference to theinner pleat tips or the outer pleat tips. General shapes, such ascircular, were referenced above. Alternate shapes are possible,including for example, oval. In general, when reference herein is madeto a general shape defined by pleat tips, minor pleat tip variations aremeant to be ignored. For example, if a pleat is slightly distorted, itwould cause an internal dip in the actual perimeter pattern of the outerpleat tips. Such minor variations are meant to be ignored, for example,when it is stated that a pleat tip pattern is a circular or generallycircular pattern.

Typically, when the media is pleated and the pleat depth remainsconstant, the first media outer perimeter adjacent the first end willhave a first dimension of length and the second media outer perimeteradjacent the second end piece will have a second dimension of length,the first dimension of length being within 98%-102% of the seconddimension of length, usually at 99%-101%, and often approximately equal.Similarly the first media outer perimeter adjacent first end will have alength within 15 mm (for example within 10 mm) of the second dimensionof length. The dimensions are merely meant to indicate that minorvariations from pleat variations adjacent opposite ends are not meant tobe of concern.

In more general terms, in many applications of the techniques describedherein, the media outer perimeter adjacent the first end piece will havea dimension of length within the range of 90-110%, typically 95-105%, ofthe dimension a length for the media outer perimeter adjacent the secondend piece. Of course, in certain preferred applications, the twodimension of lengths will be nearly equal, i.e. within 98%-102%, often99%-101%, of each other.

If the media is cylindrical, then immediately adjacent where the mediais embedded in the end pieces of 10, 11, a pattern, around the perimeterof the media, if taken in a plane orthogonal to a central axis for thecorresponding end piece, will be distorted slightly from circular, sincethe cylinder is slanted. Herein, in the discussions comprising a mediaperimeter definition to an end piece definition, this minor distortionfrom circular is generally ignored, especially when the slant angle isless than 5°.

E. Other Cartridge Features

Attention is directed to FIG. 5 and in particular to end piece 11.Positioned on end piece 11, and projecting toward the viewer, is aprojection arrangement 27, in the example depicted comprising aplurality of spaced projections 27 p. The projection arrangement 27could alternatively be a continuous ring. The projections 27 p operatesimilarly to projections 23, discussed above for end piece 10. That is,the projections 27 p would typically be formed from a compressiblematerial, for example from selected molded-in-place portions of endpiece 11 are formed. These projections 27 p will help cushion thecartridge 1 within the housing and take up tolerance variations.

From a comparison of FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, a characteristic of certainapplications of the present invention will be understood. In particular,with media patterns eccentrically positioned, there will be at least onecross-section in which opposite perimeter edges of the media and/orliner will slant in the same general direction from end piece 11 towardend piece 10, with respect to the central axis of either end piece 11,10. When the media is cylindrical with opposite ends eccentricallypositioned, the cross-section of greater emphasis of this slant would bethe cross-section taken through the projection centers of each end.Referring to FIG. 4, this would be a cross-section generally along aline from 4 c to 3 c, indicated by offset Z. The angle of this slant,for each opposite side of the cross-section, will typically be at least0.3°, usually at least 0.6°, often at least 1°, usually no more than 10°and in a typical application will be within the range of 1°-10°, forexample 1°-8°, inclusive.

It is not meant to be suggested that the amount of slant for the twoopposite edges in this cross-section will be the same. There may bevariations introduced, from pleat variations, for example.

Also, the media need not necessarily be cylindrical. For example, insome instances, even if the media is tapered, i.e. is somewhat conical,the appropriate cross-section will still show a slant in the samegeneral direction of the opposite edges, in the appropriately chosencross-section.

It is not meant to be suggested, however, that all cross-sections wouldshow the slant. For example, a cross-section perpendicular to thedirection between locations 4 c, 3 c, FIG. 4, would likely not show aslant at all or only a minimal one from a draft the angle, etc.

It is noted that the cross-section of FIG. 3 does show some slant, butit is not taken a maximal indication of slant, since it is not takenthrough a center of both end pieces.

F. Assembly of Cartridge 1; Additional Features

A variety of methods can be used to assemble a cartridge in accord withcartridge 1. In a typical approach, an extension of pleated media ismade and positioned over a central liner or support 24. Typically endcap material is then molded-in-place on the separate ends. The end capmaterial will, typically, in the molding process, close pleat ends andwill typically be configured to form housing engagement features such asa housing seal arrangement (for example, housing seal arrangement 35)and/or a second end housing engagement arrangement (for example secondhousing engagement arrangement 40).

In general, when a process of the type characterized above is used, atypical component feature is the inner liner or support, typicallypreformed, i.e. provided before cartridge assembly. An example of ausable preformed inner liner or support is shown in FIG. 7. In FIGS. 8and 9, an analogous support or preform (or preformed support) is shown,indicating certain optional variations discussed herein below in thissection.

Referring first to FIG. 7 at 60, a liner arrangement preform orconstruction usable in the construction of cartridge 1 is depictedschematically. In FIG. 60, the liner construction can be seen ascomprising an internal or inner liner section 60 i extending betweenopposite liner ends 61, 62. In general, the media 2 would be configuredaround internal liner 60 i, in extension between the ends 61,62. End 61,for the liner arrangement 60, would be positioned at or within end piece10, FIG. 1, and liner end 62 become positioned in or at end piece 11,FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 7, the inner liner section 60 i is a porous sectionallowing for fluid flow (typically gas or air) therethrough in use. Inthe example depicted, section 60 i comprises a plurality of longitudinalextensions or ribs 64 interconnected by lateral ribs 65. Althoughalternatives are possible, this is a particularly convenient arrangementwhen the liner arrangement 60 comprises molded plastic.

End 61 for the example depicted, includes an inner end or rim member 61c; and, end 62 defines an inner end or rim member 62 c. In general, thetwo rims 61 c, 62 c, and the ribs 64 extending therebetween, areconfigured to define the extent of eccentricity desired for the media 2when positioned around 60 i. Thus, in the example depicted, the rimmembers 61 c, 62 c are eccentrically aligned as the term is used herein.

It is noted that for the example arrangement depicted, rim member 61 cdefines a circular pattern, and rim member 62 c also defines a circularpattern. As a result, when an extension of media having a constant pleatdepth is positioned around the inner liner section 60 i, it willgenerally conform to a configuration having inner and outer pleat tipsat each end 3, 4, defining a circular pattern. Also, the outer pleattips will generally define a generally cylindrical pattern, if thelongitudinal extensions 64 do not taper substantially in extension fromone end to the other.

Such a configuration is typical for applications according to thepresent disclosure, but alternatives are possible. For example, one ofthe rims 61 c, 62 c, or both, can be configured in a non-circularpattern. Also, the longitudinal extensions 64 can be tapered, forexample inwardly in extension toward end 62, to define a somewhatslanted (i.e. eccentric with respect to ends) conical pattern, ifdesired. Of course, still other shapes are also possible.

Still referring to FIG. 7, at end 61, liner structure 60 includes an(outer) perimeter rim 68 secured to inner perimeter rim 61 by spacedextensions 69. During assembly, the media 2, when positioned aroundinner liner section 60 i, can be pushed toward end 61, until it abuts atleast selected portions of extensions 69. It is noted that, for theexample, the extensions 69 do not align with any diameter for rim 61 orrim 68. This is desirable (but not required in all applications) sinceit preferably prevents any of the extensions 69 from specificallyaligning with the ends of any of the pleats when pleated media is used.This is advantageous as it avoids blinding off ends of the pleats in amolding process described further below.

Still referring to FIG. 7, it is noted that end member 67, comprisingring 61, outer rim 68 and extensions 69, includes thereon a plurality ofoptional perimeter tabs 70. The perimeter tabs 70 are spaced from oneanother, and is used, would be positioned around an outer perimeter ofthe media adjacent end 3 p. The tabs 70 provide some support to the seal36. That is, when the seal 36 is compressed radially inwardly duringinstallation, the material forming the seal 36 will be backed up by thetabs 70, which provides selected/desired amount of resistance to thecompression and not forced to the seal definition.

Herein, the end member 67, can be characterized as an end member of thesupport structure 60, that extends adjacent to and across a first end 3of the media 2, at end piece 10.

In FIG. 7, attention is now directed to end member 75 at end 62. Endmember 75 has an outer perimeter or rim member 62 p and inner receivermember 45. Optional extensions 76, spaced from one another, provideconnection between receiver 45 and perimeter rim 62 p. The spacingbetween extensions 76 allows for flow of resin during molding of endpiece 11 as discussed below. It is noted that for the example depicted,member 45, as discussed above, is solid, i.e. non-porous. Thus, it is aclosed member 45 b.

Still referring to FIG. 45, it is noted that the extensions 76 turnbefore engagement with rim 62 c to provide spaced projection ends 77 atperimeter 62 p.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 8. In FIG. 8, preform or linerarrangement 60 is depicted with an optional variation indicated at 80.In particular, spaced extensions 69 terminate at spaced tabs 70, whichengage rim 68. Thus, a difference in the arrangements in FIG. 8 and FIG.7 is merely that the optional tabs 70 do not depend from the rim in FIG.8, rather the optional tabs 70 project upwardly from the rim and theneach tab 70 engages an extension 69.

In general operation, the support of FIG. 7 and the support of FIG. 8will operate similarly. The outer perimeter of the tabs 70 in FIG. 8will be somewhat more rigid and less flexible in backing up the seal 36,however, in the final product.

In FIG. 9, an end view of the liner or liner support 60, FIG. 8 isdepicted. One can see eccentric positioning between features at oppositeends.

In general, construction of a filter cartridge 1 using a preform, lineror support 60 of the type depicted in FIGS. 7-9 would be as follows. Anextension of media 2 surrounding an open interior would be pushed overend 62 until it engages end 61. The media can be cylindrical oralternately configured. The media can be pleated, although alternativesare possible. The media inner perimeter will be sized to engage(surround) the inner rim 61 c and mimic its shape. This will causeoffset in the centers of the outer perimeters of the media at oppositeends 3, 4 of the type discussed above.

An optional outer liner, of course, can be provided at various stages.For example, it can be included around the media before the media is putover the liner 60. It could be positioned over a combination of themedia and inner liner. Indeed, in some instances, it could be positionedover the otherwise completed cartridge.

Construction of the end pieces 10, 11 needs to be completed. There is nospecific requirement of the order in which these end pieces arecompleted.

As an example, for this description it will be assumed that the processused involves completing construction of end piece 10 first. This can bedone, for example, by positioning a portion of a combination of media 2and support 60 (typically with an outer liner if used) in a mold ofappropriate size and shape for molding selected molded-in-place featuresof the end piece 10. Appropriate resin material can be provided in themold for molding the remainder of the end piece 10 in place. Typically,the molding will be an open mold process, allowing for portions of themedia 2 and liner structure 60 to project outwardly (upwardly) from themold.

A variety of materials can be used for the resin. Typically, the resinwill be chosen from materials of appropriate physical and chemicalproperties for the intended use. Molded-in-place end cap materialsformed from polyurethane of the type chosen for various other types ofend caps having radial seals thereon will be typical. An example will betwo-part polyurethane of the type characterized in U.S. Pat. No.7,070,642. A typical material will be molded to an as molded density ofno greater than 450 kg/m³, typically no greater than 355 kg/cm³ often nogreater than 290 kg/cm³ and usually within the range of 190-300 kg/cm³′for example 208-275 kg/cm³. It will typically be molded to a hardness,Shore A, of no greater than 30 and typically no greater than 22, usuallyno greater than 20 and often within the range of 10-18, inclusive. Suchmaterials are well known and have been used in the molding of end capspreviously, such as for example as described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,216,335

The mold can be configured appropriately to form radial seal section 36in a convenient manner, in the same molding operation that closes theend of the media 2 by embedding the media within the molded-in-placematerial and closing all portions of the end cap 11, except for centralaperture 16 to gas flow therethrough.

The opposite end piece 11 can be generated in an analogous manner bypositioning end 4 of the media and end structure 62 in the mold. Ananalogous resin material can be used for molded-in-place portions ofsecond end piece 11 if desired. It can simultaneously form the second orbottom end housing engagement feature 40, by mold features included inthe mold.

In the next section, an air cleaner assembly is described using acartridge 1 of the type depicted in FIGS. 1-6 and constructed using aliner of the types of FIGS. 7-9.

II. An Example Air Cleaner Assembly

A. General Air Cleaner Features, FIGS. 10-15

In FIGS. 10-15, an example air cleaner assembly, using a cartridge 1 inaccord with FIGS. 1-6, is shown provided with selected internalengagement arrangements.

Referring first to FIG. 10, at 90, an air cleaner assembly according tothe present disclosure is provided. The air cleaner assembly 90 includesa housing 91 defining an interior. Within in the interior, cartridge 1would typically be operably positioned for use.

The particular air cleaner 90 depicted is configured with a housing 91that would be oriented with a long dimension extending generallyvertically, in use. Principles of the present application areparticularly well adapted for such a use. However alternate orientationsof housings are possible with selected applications of techniquesdescribed herein. Still referring to FIG. 10, as a result of theorientation, housing 91 has a first (top) end 91 t and a second,opposite, (bottom) end 91 b.

Still referring to FIG. 10 (bottom) end 91 b is typically provided withan optional evacuator arrangement 93 therein, from which, for example,liquid (typically water) collected within an interior of housing 91 canbe ejected during use. Also in some instances, some particulate materialdrawn into the assembly 90 can be evacuated through evacuator assembly93. Such evacuator assemblies are well known and have been widely usedin air cleaner assemblies. Generally, such evacuator assemblies comprisean appropriately sized, positioned and oriented port over which isfitted an evacuator valve that can periodically open to releasecollected material such as water.

In a typical assembly, configured for “out-to-in flow” duringfiltration, the evacuator arrangement 93 is in direct flow communicationwith an unfiltered air annular surrounding an installed filter cartridgein use. By this it is meant that flow from an air cleaner inlet to theevacuator arrangement 93 can occur, without that flow passing throughthe filter media of the filter cartridge. This will be typical andpreferred, when the evacuator arrangement 93 is configured to allowwater, for example, to drain from the assembly.

As indicated previously, the principles described herein are developedfor implementation with air cleaner assemblies in which the filtercartridge, for example cartridge 1, is a service component. That is, thecartridge 1 is removable, from and replaceable in, the air cleanerhousing 91 as may be desired for operational lifetime of the air cleaner90. To account for this, the housing 91 generally includes a body orbody portion 95 and a removable access cover portion 96. Duringservicing, or other removal/installation operation involving thecartridge 1, the access cover 96 is removed from the lower body 95,allowing access to the internally received cartridge 1. After servicingor other operation, the access cover 96 is then replaced on the bodypart 95, where the cartridge is appropriately positioned. For theexample air cleaner assembly 90 depicted, the access cover 96 is securedto the body part 91 by fasteners 98, in the example comprising bolts 99.Alternate types of fastener arrangements (for example over centerlatches) can be used, however.

It is noted that in the example depicted, the air flow outlet is locatedat a top of the housing. While this will be typical in many instances,alternatives are possible. Indeed, the outlet can even be positioned ina bottom of the housing, if desired. Similarly, the access cover,depicted in the example as being at the top of the housing, can bealternately positioned, for example at the bottom of the housing.

For the example air cleaner assembly 90 depicted, the housing main body95 is constructed in two separate sections that are secured to oneanother after formation. The two sections are indicated by housing bodycentral section 100 and housing body (closed) end section 101. In theexample, the evacuator arrangement 93 is positioned in the housing body(closed) end section 101.

A joint between the sections 100, 101 is indicated at 105. For theparticular assembly 90 depicted, the joint 105 is a snap-fit arrangementwith projections 109 on section 101 snap-fit into holders 110 on section100. Alternatives are possible. In the example, the joint 105 isconfigured and made such that once assembled, section 101 cannot bereadily disconnected from section 100. In some applications, in thetechniques described herein, the bottom section 101 can be removablysecured to the central section 100. This could be advantageous, when itis desired to allow servicing or service access to the cartridge fromthe bottom.

Still referring to FIG. 10, for the example air cleaner assembly 90depicted, an outlet 115 for a filtered flow from the air cleaner 90, isindicated on the housing 91. In the particular example depicted, theoutlet 115 is positioned in the access cover 96. This will be typicalfor many applications of the techniques described herein.

Still referring to FIG. 10, attention is directed to tap or conduit 117.Tap or conduit 117 can be used to direct a portion of air flow to adesired location or it can be used to bring gas flow from otherstructures into an outlet end of housing 91; and/or it can be used toconnect a pressure monitor (restriction indicator) or other equipment tothe housing 91.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 11, a second side elevational view ofair cleaner assembly 90. The view of FIG. 11 is generally taken from theright of the orientation shown in FIG. 10. Like reference numeralsindicate features previously characterized. In FIG. 11, inlet 120, forgas (typically air) to be filtered, is indicated. It is noted that theparticular inlet 120 is a slanted, tangential, inlet 121, althoughalternatives are possible. By tangential, it is meant that the inlet 120is configured to direct air flow into an interior of the housing 91 in adirection generally tangential (i.e. not toward a center or central axisthereof) and into a cyclonic pattern around an interiorly receivedcartridge. By “slanted” in this context, it is meant that the inlet 120is configured to direct the inlet air more toward one or the other ofthe ends 91 t, 91 b, in this instance toward end 91 b, i.e. the bottomof the air cleaner housing 91 in use. Thus, the incoming air is directedinto a cyclonic pattern to help remove the water and particulatematerial carried therein, by centrifugal separation, to be directedtoward optional evacuator outlet 115. In FIG. 11, arrow 122 indicatesthe general direction of inlet flow.

It is noted that in many instances, the slant can be defined by a slantangle. The slant angle would be an acute angle, for example, as in FIG.11, between a center line direction of the inlet 120, and a directionparallel to a shortest direction between the ends 91 t, 91 b. Thisangle, indicated at S, will typically be at least 30°, usually at least40°, and often within the range of 45°-65° (or 45°-70°) inclusive, atypical example being within the range of 48°-65°, inclusive.

In FIG. 12, another side elevational view of air cleaner assembly 90 isdepicted. Here, the view is toward the air flow inlet 120 and one cansee a portion of cartridge 1 through an inlet aperture 120 a of inlet120.

From a review of FIG. 12, one can understand that the cartridge 1 isoriented such that it slants at an outer perimeter 2 p away from afirst, inner, sidewall section or portion 91 x of housing 91 where airis directed from inlet 120 around the cartridge 1, as the media 2extends from a region adjacent upper end 91 t toward bottom 91 b. Thatis, an annulus 124 around the cartridge 1 is not constant in shape, froma cartridge end adjacent top 91 t to bottom 91 b. Rather, the annulus124 widens in lower portions. In the example the annulus 124 will beunderstood to widen in regions where air is immediately directed intothe housing 91 i from inlet 120. Cartridge and air cleaner featureswhich allow for this, and advantages which result from it, are discussedfurther below.

Still referring to FIG. 12, when the cartridge is configured ascartridge 1, with a generally cylindrical media 2, typically the media 2will be such that a first perimeter portion edge adjacent housing 91 xslants away from the first housing section 91 x, as it extends from thefirst end piece 10 toward the second end piece 11; and, is such that aperimeter portion or edge opposite that first portion or edge alsoslants away from internal section 91 x as it extends toward end piece 11and housing bottom 101.

The slanting characterized in the previous paragraph, with respect tothe media edge or first portion (and an opposite media edge portion)slanting away from the housing sidewall, in extension from the first endpiece toward the second end piece, is meant to be “independently” of theshape of the sidewall portion in the region (adjacent the media edge orfirst portion) into which the inlet air is directed. By “independently”in this context, it is meant that the slanting characterized is theresult of the media configuration, and is independent of the sidewallconfiguration. Thus, the sidewall could be slanted toward the cartridge,away from the cartridge, be irregularly configured, or be generallyperpendicular to end pieces of the cartridge, with a slanting definitionto the media still being as characterized.

For example, and referring to FIG. 12, at region 91 y, the housingslants as it extends toward housing bottom 101 more so than it does atregion 91 x.

In addition, while referring to FIG. 12, it can be understood that thedefinition of the inlet 120 for the example depicted, is non-circular.Rather, the inlet 120 has a shape or rim definition that is longest in adimension generally corresponding to direction from top 91 t to bottom91 b and narrowest in a direction perpendicular to that (vertical inuse) direction. Typically a ratio of the vertical or longest dimensionto the mid-dimension perpendicular to that largest dimension is at least1.3:1 typically at least 1.4:1, for example, within the range of 1.5:1to 3:1, inclusive (for example 1.5:1-2.3:1, inclusive). Advantages fromsuch a shape of the inlet definition are also discussed herein below.Herein, the mid-dimension is a dimension perpendicular to the longestdimension and taken at a mid-point of the longest dimension.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 13. In FIG. 13, a top plan view of theair cleaner assembly 90 is depicted. One can view portions of thecartridge 1 through the outlet 115. Also, in FIG. 13, mounting pads 130facilitating mounting of the air cleaner assembly 90 on a vehicle orother equipment in use, are shown. Typically, the mounting pads 130 areprovided on the housing body 95, so that the access cover 96 is free tobe more easily removed during servicing. If the bottom 101 is alsointended to be removable from the center 100, to allow for servicingfrom the bottom, then typically all of the mounting pads 130 will bepositioned on the housing central section 100.

In FIG. 14, a perspective view of air cleaner assembly 90 is providedwith features previously indicated identified by like referencenumerals.

In FIG. 15, a bottom plan view of the air cleaner assembly 90 isprovided.

B. Selected Features of Engagement Between the Cartridge 1 and theHousing 91

In air cleaner assembly 90, the internally received filter cartridge 1is generally positioned within the housing interior 91 i, with oppositeend sections of the cartridge 1 in engagement with the housing 91. Theparticular cartridge 1 depicted and described herein, is removablysecured at the first end piece 10 to the access cover 96 by a sealarrangement. This seal arrangement is generally referred to as a housingseal arrangement and is what prevents air from inlet 120 that has notbeen filtered, from reaching outlet 115. At end 11, engagement betweenthe housing engagement 40 and the housing body section 95 is alsodesirable, in part to ensure that the cartridge 1 remains appropriatelyoriented during installation and use.

In FIG. 16, engagement of a cartridge end piece 10 and a portion of thehousing 91, for an example system as shown, is depicted schematically.Referring to FIG. 16, a schematic fragmentary view of the cartridge 1adjacent end cap 10 is depicted. At 135, a sealing flange is shownsurrounding end piece 10. The sealing flange 135 would typically bepositioned on a portion of the housing, for example on the access cover96. It is noted that in this instance, the sealing flange 135 includesan inner seal surface 136, which is engaged by seal member 36 on thecartridge 1 in a sealing manner. This typically occurs as the accesscover 96 is pushed downwardly onto body section 95, with a cartridge 1already positioned in the body section 95. It is noted that in FIG. 16,the schematic depiction is meant to indicate how sealing would occurbetween the portion 136 in the housing, and end piece 10. The figure isnot meant to indicate other engagements that may have occurred duringinstallation, for example between projections 23 and a portion of thehousing.

In FIG. 17, a typical selected engagement between end piece 11 and aportion of the housing 91 is depicted in fragmentary cross-sectionalview. Referring to FIG. 17, at 140, an engagement projection positionedin the housing 91 is depicted schematically. The engagement projection140 (or projection 160) of housing 91 is positioned such that housingengagement arrangement 40 will properly engage it, when the cartridge 1is installed. Projection 140 (or 160) is positioned in body section 95,typically bottom 101. Of course, a seal can be formed at this location,but again a seal is not required in an example in which the end piece 11is closed.

Referring to FIG. 17, attention is directed to optional interferenceprojection member 141 on projection 140 (or 160). The optionalinterference projection or member 141 is positioned so that when the endpiece 11 is pushed over engagement arrangement 140, the projectionarrangement 40 on the end piece 11 pushes into, and in some instances,past member 141. The result is that interference projection 141 willprovide additional resistance to the cartridge 1 being separated fromprojection member 140 (or 160) by movement in the direction of arrow150. Advantages from this will be discussed below.

In FIG. 18, a second schematic cross-sectional view analogous to FIG.17, but showing more portions of the cartridge 1 and projection 140 (or160) are depicted. Here, receiver projection 45 is shown fit over aguide projection 160 in the housing 91, i.e. guide projection 160extends into a receiver recess defined by projection 45. It can beunderstood that as the cartridge 1 is lowered into the housing 91,alignment between the projection 160 and the receiver 145 will helporient the cartridge 1 (during further lowering) into proper rotationaland longitudinal orientation, i.e. into proper engagement with thehousing. Further, relating to this is discussed below.

Typically, the projection 160 and receiver recess defined by theprojection 45 are selected such that the projection 160 extends into thereceiver recess a distance of at least 50% of the length of the receiverrecess, preferably 60% of this length, and most preferably at least 80%of this length. Also, typically, the amount of projection is at least 40mm, typically at least 80 mm and in some instances 100 mm or more.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, it is noted that the schematic figures aremeant to only indicate certain select engagements between the cartridge1 and the housing 91, as described. It is not meant to be suggested thatall possible engagements are depicted. For example, there could beengagements involving other projections at bottom 101.

C. Optional Provision of a Separation Differential Between Ability toSeparate the Access Cover from First End Piece 10; and, Ability toSeparate the Cartridge 1 from Projection 140 (i.e. the Housing Body 95)

Typically, especially when the assembly is used in the orientation asdepicted in FIG. 12, it will be preferred that it be easier to separatethe access cover 96 from the cartridge first end piece 10, than it is toseparate the cartridge 1 from the housing body 95, during servicing. Areason for this is that (because) servicing typically involves liftingthe access cover 96 upwardly away from the cartridge 1, it is preferredthat the cartridge 1 not be pulled out of the housing 91 during thisoperation. In some instances, this can be managed simply by relying onthe weight of the cartridge 1 to make it likely that as the access cover96 is lifted, the cartridge 1 will tend to stay in place. However, insome instances, it may be desirable to optionally provide for anincrease in resistance to separation between the engagement arrangement40 (i.e. the cartridge 1) and the housing 91 relative to resistance tothe separation of the housing seal 36 from the access cover 96.

An optional manner in which this can be accomplished is through use ofan interference projection arrangement such as projection arrangement141 discussed above. Other manners relate to configuring the materialsof the end cap 11 in the region of the housing engagement 40 such thatgreater pressure of engagement occurs; or, such that more force isrequired to separate region 40 from projection 140.

Also, the access cover 96 is typically and preferably configured so thatonce removed, a portion of the cartridge 1, adjacent end piece 11, willproject upwardly (typically 10-60 mm) out of the housing body portion 95facilitating grasping with the cartridge 1 at this location for removalfrom housing body 1.

D. Use of a Projection/Receiver Arrangement to Facilitate ProperOrientation of the Cartridge 1 within the Housing Body 95, DuringAssembly

As is discussed in more detail below, an eccentric configuration of thecartridge 1 is useful in part to provide for preferred air flowcharacteristics in the annulus 124 surrounding the cartridge inassociation with the inlet 120. When the cartridge 1 is appropriatelyeccentric to provide for this advantage, it is desirable to ensure thatthe cartridge 1 is appropriately oriented when positioned in the housingbody 95 to obtain this advantage.

Secured and desired orientation in the cartridge 1 relative to thehousing body 95 is preferably provided by an optionalprojection/receiver arrangement, for example one that includes thereceiver guide member or receiver 45 on the cartridge 1, engaging aguide projection 160 in the housing body 95, as generally shown in FIG.18. This can be accomplished by providing for an appropriate shape ofthe two, to ensure that an appropriate radial alignment is needed, forinstallation to occur.

For example, as referenced above, and as viewable in FIG. 4, theprojection 45 (and receiver recess) can be provided with a non-circularcross-sectional shape, in the example shown an oval cross-sectionalshape that tapers as it extends upwardly. An analogous mating shape tothe projection 160 in a housing body 95, FIG. 18 can be used. When thisis the case, only two theoretical rotational orientations between thecartridge 1 and the projection 160 housing body 95 are possible. In one,the cartridge 1 could be fully lowered into (i.e. installed in) thehousing. In the other, due to the eccentricity of the cartridge 1, aslowering is initiated, interference would often occur, preventing orinhibiting the cartridge 1 from being fully installed.

Of course, in alternative configurations the shape of one or both of thereceiver 45 and projection 160 can be chosen so that only a singlerotational engagement orientation between the two is possible,facilitating, even further, desired rotational orientation to cartridge1 relative to the housing body 95 during installation. This can be done,for example, by using a shape for one or both that can only fully engagethe other in one orientation. An example would be to distort the ovalconfigurations depicted along one long side, to flatten or straightenthem out somewhat. Alternates are possible.

It is also noted that a resistive engagement member 40 in the cartridge1 at the end cap 11, can facilitate retaining the cartridge 1 in properorientation before the access cover 96 is installed, and after theaccess cover 96 is removed.

III. Application of the Techniques Described Herein to AccomplishSelected Advantage

Air cleaners design and manufacturing must take into account a number ofvarying interests and concerns. For example, the features should beselected in manners that are readily manufacturable. Performance issuesare of great concern. The filter cartridge should be provided in amanner that will have adequate lifetime for the desired use. This oftenmeans providing as large an amount of surface area of media within agiven volume as can reasonably be accommodated without undue restrictionto flow.

The vehicle or other equipment manufacturers' concerns are in manyinstances controlling. It is often desirable to provide an air cleanerthat is as small as reasonable for a given application to manage weightconcerns and also space issues. However, there are also concerns ifrestriction to air flow through the air cleaner is too great. Larger aircleaners with larger flow volumes more readily accommodate suchconcerns.

Many of the techniques described herein can be applied to provide foradvantages with respect to the above. For example, the air cleanerhousing 91 depicted can be configured with a relatively small outer size(by comparison to many air cleaner arrangements for analogous use)and/or with relatively small inner cross-sectional sizes with respect tothe annulus around selected portions of the cartridge 1. This is, inpart, because a critical portion of the annulus, located where the inlet120 initially directs air between the cartridge and the housingsidewall, has been opened up due to the slant in the media at thislocation, provided by the described eccentricity. The slant ispreferably not, in the preferred example depicted, accomplished bymerely making a conical shaped cartridge, since, generally, a taperingconical media (concentrically aligned at both ends) has lower mediasurface area than an analogous cylindrical media.

Of course, the techniques can be applied with some eccentric conicaltapering the cartridge. However, the eccentricity provided, ensures thatmovement of the bottom end 4 of the cartridge 1 further away from theside of the housing toward which air is initially directed, occurs.

A relatively long narrow shape used for the inlet 120, facilitates this,along with the slanted directing of the inlet toward the bottom end.First, slanting of the inlet toward the bottom end helps ensure that theinitial in flow of air occurs in the widest portion of the annulus, i.e.where the media has been tapered away from the sidewall the most. Along, narrow shape of the inlet opening, allows for a relatively largeinlet opening, for relatively high air flow rates, even though arelatively small air cleaner housing radius (cross-dimension) isprovided. It also can be used to facilitate a directing of the air intothe relatively narrow annulus.

As discussed above, the features described herein can also be applied tohelp ensure a proper cartridge is used, and is properly oriented. Thesefeatures relate to the preferred engagement arrangements at the oppositeends of the cartridge, especially ones which require eccentric featuresfor engagement. These same features can help ensure that the cartridgeis fully secured in position, once lowered into the housing bottom, sothat it remains appropriately oriented when the access cover isinstalled.

Also, due to be eccentricity, the cartridge is secured against rotation,in use.

In some instances, it will be desired to make the housing body in twoseparate pieces such as central piece 100 and bottom piece 101 discussedabove. This facilitates construction in which the bottom piece 101 hasan eccentric projection relative to features in the access cover 96 thatwill be secured to the central piece 100.

IV. Some Selected Variations

A. Variations in the Selected Eccentric Features; FIGS. 19-23

Herein above, two different features relating to eccentricity werediscussed. A first was described in connection with the media, by havingopposite ends of the media define perimeters eccentrically positioned. Asecond was a described eccentricity with respect to selected end capfeatures at opposite ends, especially with respect to those featuresthat engage the housing at opposite ends. This latter eccentrically isreflected by an eccentric orientation of the seal 36 and the secondhousing engagement arrangement 40.

A wide variety of variations in these features and in other cartridgefeatures that can be used to provide eccentricity is possible. Selectedexamples are indicated herein.

In FIG. 19, a schematic view is provided of two selected cartridgefeatures oriented (aligned) eccentrically. The schematic view of FIG. 19generally corresponds to the situation in which both features arecircular and both features define the same size definition. An exampleof the schematic view of FIG. 19 would be the one described above forcartridge 1, with the outer perimeter of the media at end 3 provided inthe drawing at perimeter 200 and the outer perimeter of the media at thelower end of the cartridge indicated in the drawing at perimeter 201.Eccentricity between the two is shown by offset of the two centers 200c, 201 c, respectively.

An example of the FIG. 19 schematic, then, would be one in which themedia is generally cylindrical and the perimeters 200, 201 representeither outer pleat tip definition or inner pleat tip definition,assuming consistency of media depth and no substantial tapering in themedia between the opposite ends.

Of course, definitions 200, 201 could comprise other portions of thecartridge at opposite ends, defining circular portions of the samediameter. Examples could be inner liner or outer liner definitions.

In FIG. 20, a selected variation is shown schematically. Here, the twoeccentric features are defined with perimeter of different dimensions.For example, one is shown at 205 with center 205 c, the other at 206with center 206 c. An example would be media that tapers in outerdiameter in extension from end 3 to end 4. Thus, the media configurationwould be conical, but would still be distorted for an eccentric endorientation. Of course, other features could be similarly ofdifferential size but still eccentrically positioned. From FIG. 20, itcan be seen that even if the media is conical, advantages according tothe present disclosure can be obtained if the eccentricity of the typecharacterized is used, since it can help pull the media away from theregion of annulus where the air flow enters the housing even more thanprovided by a mere conical taper, at least relative to an opposite side.

Of course, other possibilities could lead to an orientations ofeccentricities somewhat similar to that shown in FIG. 20. For example,one of the patterns could relate to an outer pleat tip or outer mediaperimeter while the other relates to an inner pleat tip pattern or othercartridge feature at the other end.

It is not required that each of the perimeter definitions used to definethe eccentricities be circular, or that they both be of the same shape.In FIG. 21, an example is shown. Here, one perimeter definition is shownat 210 with center 201 c, the other at 211 with center 211 c; thecenters 210 c, 211 c being eccentric. In this instance, the generalshape of the two perimeters 211, 210 is different, one (210) beingcircular, the other (211) being oval, in this instance, elliptical. Ofcourse, both can be non-circular. Thus, the example of FIG. 21 indicatesnot only that the shapes can be non-circular, but they can be differentfrom one another. An example of the arrangement shown in FIG. 21, wouldbe (if implemented with different relative sizes between perimeters 210and 211 than shown) if perimeter 210 was defining structure associatedwith a first end cap, while perimeter 211 was defining a base of an ovalprojection member such as member 45.

In FIG. 22, an example analogous to FIG. 21 is shown, in which the twoperimeters (215, 216) with centers 215 c, 216 c, respectively are shown.Here, both are oval. Again, relative sizes could be varied somewhat. Anexample (with different relative diameters) could be oval mediaperimeter definitions at each end, with a conical, but eccentric, taper.

Of course, variations in the oval shape are also possible. In FIG. 23,two perimeter sections, 220, 221 with centers 220 c, 221 c respectivelyare shown. Here, pattern 220 is circular, and pattern 221 is oval.However the oval shape to pattern 221 is a shape sometimes referred toas “racetrack” which has a pair of opposite parallel sides and a pair ofopposite curved ends.

In the examples depicted above, the relative sizes of perimeters in eachof the comparisons are meant to be variables that can be modifieddepending on the cartridge features of interest.

From the above, it can be understood that eccentricity can be introducedwith respect to any one of various comparative features between oppositeends of the cartridge, whether it be housing engagement features, mediaperimeter features, or other general end cap or structural features.Typically, although not required in all arrangements, it will bepreferred that the eccentricity be introduced by at least mediafeatures, to obtain the desirable annulus advantage discussed above. Itwill also be typically desirable that the features involving housingengagement at the opposite ends also be centric, for facilitatingengagement with opposite housing pieces.

B. Non-Regular Geometric Shapes, FIGS. 24 and 25

It is noted that in the examples provided, the perimeter shapes havegenerally been regular shapes such as oval or circular. Alternatives arepossible. For example, in FIG. 24, a perimeter shape for the outside ofan end cap such as a lower end cap 11, is shown, the shape being of thetype described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,444,735 incorporated herein byreference. Such features and advantageous can be implemented inarrangements according to the present disclosure.

In FIG. 25, another alternate perimeter shape is depicted, that can beused, for example, for the shape of the seal on end cap 10. The sealshape of FIG. 25 is of a type generally described in U.S. Ser. No.13/662,022, incorporated herein by reference. This seal shape can beused with principles according to the present disclosure.

Still other shapes can be used, including irregular ones or ones that donot show repeating features around the perimeter definition. Theeccentricity in such instances, when used, will generally beaccomplished by ensuring that an approximate geometric center of the twoaligned features in projection is offset.

V. Use with an Optional Secondary or Safety Cartridge, FIGS. 26 and 27

It is noted that the features characterized herein can be implemented inan assembly which also uses a secondary or safety filter cartridge. Asecondary or safety filter cartridge is, generally, a cartridgepositioned downstream of the main filter cartridge 1. With an out-to-inflow pattern, the safety filter cartridge is typically positioned withmedia projecting into the open filter interior 7 of the main filtercartridge 1.

Two examples of such arrangements are depicted in the fragmentary,schematic, view of FIGS. 26 and 27, each of which is a variation of FIG.16.

Referring first to FIG. 27, an optional safety cartridge 200 isdepicted, in phantom, sealed to ring 201 on the main filter cartridge 1at seal 203. The secondary or safety filter cartridge 200 then projectsdownwardly into the open filter interior 7. The media 205 of thesecondary filter cartridge 200 can be pleated or unpleated. At anopposite end, not depicted, the safety cartridge 200 can either stopshort of projection 45, or it can be configured to receive a portion ofprojection 45 therein.

In some instances, it may be desirable to seal the secondary or safetycartridge to a portion of the access cover. An example of this isprovided in FIG. 27, which is also a variation of FIG. 16. Here, thesafety cartridge 220 is shown sealed to a seal flange 221 on the accesscover. The secondary or safety cartridge 220 can be otherwise similar tosafety cartridge 200 discussed above, and be used analogously.

VI. An Example Workable System

Herein, when features are characterized as eccentrically aligned oreccentrically positioned, when projected into a plane perpendicular to ashortest dimension between the opposite end pieces, the features can becharacterized as being spaced by an eccentricity distance Z. A typicaleccentricity distance Z for two eccentrically aligned features accordingto the present disclosure, would be at least 5 mm, often at least 8 mm,although alternatives are possible. In many instances, the eccentricitydistance Z would be within the range of 8-50 mm, often within the rangeof 10-40 mm, inclusive (for example 10-30 mm, inclusive).

In the various figures, example dimensions are indicted by letterdesignators. In this section, example dimensions usable to create anexample working system of the type described are provided. It is notedthat variations from the dimensions can be practiced, while obtainingmany of the benefits of the present application.

The example dimensions of the system in FIGS. 1-15 are as follows: inFIG. 2, A=19.1 mm; and, B=249.4 mm; In FIG. 3, C=269.8 mm; D=235.8 mm;E=165 mm; F=5 mm; G=495.1 mm; H=176.5 mm; I=12.7 mm; and, J=10 mm. InFIG. 4, K=12.5 mm; and, L=8.4 mm; In FIG. 5, M=112 mm; and, N=80 mm; inFIG. 6, O=5.5 mm; and, P=2.5 mm; in FIG. 10, Q=269 mm; R=127.8 mm;S=336.2 mm; and, T=345.9 mm; in FIG. 11, U=23.7 mm; V=35 mm; W=35.8 mm;X=44.2 mm; Y=15.7 mm; Z=226.3 mm; AA=570.8 mm; and, BB=23.3 mm; in FIG.12, CC=170 mm; in FIG. 13, DD=203.1 mm; EE=149.3 mm; FF=84.6 mm; GG=43.7mm; HH=221.8 mm; II=97.7 mm; JJ=123 mm; and, KK=176 mm; and, in FIG. 15,LL=145.2 mm.

Again, the principles of the present disclosure can be applied in avariety of systems, with many variations from the dimensions indicatedabove. It will be the case, however, that in many typical applications,the media of the cartridge will be at least 300 mm long, usually atleast 400 mm long since the techniques will be most preferred in anapplication in which the media is sufficiently long to move out of theway of inlet flow, and selected portion of the assembly, to obtainadvantage. Also, it will typically be the case that the cartridge has alargest outer pleat dimension, corresponding to a diameter when thepleat tips define a circular pattern, of at least 190 mm and typicallyat least 200 mm, for example 200-350 mm. This, too, is an indicationthat the principles are developed for preferred application insituations in which the filter cartridge is relatively large, and needsto handle a large air flow during filtering.

VII. A Second Example Workable System; FIGS. 28-53

In FIGS. 28-53, a schematic depiction of a second workable system isprovided. The system is generally in accord with descriptions providedpreviously herein above with selected variations as depicted ordiscussed.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 28-54, like reference numerals to indicategenerally analogous or analogously functioning parts to those previouslydescribed are used. Also, like features have analogous features.Selected variations are characterized with specificity herein below.

A. The Air Cleaner Housing and Access Cover, FIGS. 29-44

The air cleaner assembly of FIGS. 29-54 uses cleaner air 91 housinggenerally analogous to housing 91, FIGS. 10-15. Referring to thecross-sectional views of FIGS. 31 and 32, the air cleaner assembly 90then includes a housing 91 having a housing body 95 and an access cover96 inside of which housing 91 is received a filter cartridge 1. In theexample, the housing body 95 comprises body sections 100 and 101, bodysection 100 being a central body section and body section 101 being anend body section.

In FIG. 29, the housing body 95 comprising separate sections 100 and 101is viewable in side elevational view. Here, air flow inlet 120, which isa slanted inlet, can be seen. A general direction of air flow into thehousing interior, via inlet 120, is shown by arrow 120 x. Thetangential, i.e. inlet, flow is directed along a sidewall directionbetween the cartridge 1 and a sidewall of section 100, as it enters thehousing.

Also in FIG. 29, projection 93 which operates as an evacuation port, forreceiving an evacuation valve member thereon, is depicted, in housingsection 101.

In FIG. 30, the housing body 95 is depicted in exploded view comprisingcentral section 100 with inlet 120, and lower section or end section101. Mounting pads 130 for securing the air cleaner assembly 90 in placein use are viewable. Also, a snap fit engagement between the end section101 and the central section 100 can be viewed comprising receivers 110and projections 109, at seam 105.

Referring to FIG. 30, for the example assembly depicted, end piece 101is snap-fit to central member 100, and is not typically removedtherefrom it in use. Thus, one of the mounting pads 130 is positioned onthe end piece 101. If the end piece 101 was intended to be removableafter air cleaner installation, for example, for service access, then aremovable connection could be used to secure piece 101 to the centerpiece 100; and, there would typically not be a mounting pad 130 on endpiece 101.

Still referring to FIG. 30, in housing end section 101, and a portion ofprojection or projection member 160 can be seen.

In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 31, cartridge 1 can be seencomprising an extension of media 2 having opposite ends 3 and 4,engaging opposite end pieces 10 and 11 respectively. The media 2surrounds the open filter interior 7. End piece 10 is an open end piece,having a central flow aperture 16 and having an radially directedhousing seal 35 thereon, engaging access cover 96 as a removable sealingmember. End piece 11 is a closed end piece having a central receiverprojection 45 therein defining a receiver recess 46 into whichprojection 160 on the housing 91 (in particular on end section 101)projects.

Still referring to FIG. 31, it is noted that the evacuation port 93 isin direct flow communication with the annulus around cartridge 1, inwhich filtered air will flow. This is because the system as drawn is for“out-to-in flow” during filtering; and, such a direct flow communicationallows any water or preseparated material to reach the port 93 directly,without flowing through the media 1.

In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 32, taken generally at right anglesto the view of FIG. 31, one can view the interior 91 i of the housing 91in a region where the inlet 120 directs air flow, initially, between thecartridge 1 and a portion 91 x of the housing sidewall. It is thisregion (indicated at 91 z) that is referred to herein as an internalsidewall section spaced from the filter cartridge at a location towardwhich the air flow inlet directs air flow. It can be seen that thecartridge 1 is configured to have the media outer perimeter at location2 q and section 91 z, slant away from the sidewall section 91 x inextension from end piece 10 toward end piece 11, opening up a greaterflow area toward end 91 b of the housing 91, opposite outlet 115, as theair flow is directed along an inlet slant. Also, for the exampledepicted, opposite media perimeter section 2 q, a media perimetersection 2 s also slants away from sidewall location 91 x, as the media 2extends from end piece 10 to end piece 11, although alternatives arepossible.

Also referring to FIG. 32, one can see that the projection 160 in thehousing 91 is distorted in shape from a simple oval perimeter(cross-section) tapering (conical type) projection, see especiallyregion 160 r. This configuration is discussed herein below. Further,projection 160 can be seen as having an interference member 141, forengagement by second engagement member 40 on end cap 11.

In FIG. 31 at 93 v, an evacuator valve positioned in the housing (inprojection 93) is viewable in cross-section. Such a valve wouldgenerally comprise a flexible member that can open under internalpressure to release material received within region 93 r.

In FIGS. 33-38, features of the housing body 95, especially end section101, can be viewed in detail. From inspection of these figures the shapeof the projection 160 can be inspected.

In FIG. 33, a top perspective view of section 101 is provided. In FIG.34, a side elevational view is provided. A plan view is provided in FIG.35. In FIG. 36, a cross-sectional view taken along line 36-36, FIG. 35is viewable. Here upon inspection of the cross-section, the projection160 can be seen as having a side portion 160 q distorted inwardly tocreate shoulder 160 s. Also strengthening ribs 160 r and interferenceprojection 141 are viewable. In FIG. 37, a cross-sectional view takenalong line 37-37, FIG. 35, generally at right angles to the view of FIG.36 is provided. The internal distortion in the sidewall of shoulder 160s can be seen on an interior of the projection 160. Also, elongate rib160 y is viewable.

In FIG. 38, an enlarged fragmentary view taken generally along line38-38, FIG. 35, is provided to view the projection 160 and itsdistortion 100 s is provided.

From FIGS. 33-38, it can be seen that the projection 160 does have anoval end 160 e adjacent a lowermost or bottommost portion of theprojection 100. However, as it rises upwardly and tapers inwardly, itdoes not maintain a constant oval cross-section, but rather isdistorted, for example in the region 160 s.

In FIGS. 39-42, the access cover 96 is viewable. In FIG. 39, it isviewable in top perspective view. In FIG. 40, the access cover isviewable in bottom perspective view. In FIG. 41, a top plan view isprovided (without information indicia). FIG. 42 is a bottom plan view.In FIG. 43, a cross-sectional view taken along line 43-43, FIG. 41 isprovided; and, in FIG. 44, a cross-sectional view taken along line44-44, FIG. 41 is viewable.

Still reviewing to FIGS. 39-44, one can see the seal surface 96 s on theaccess cover to which the outwardly directed radial seal on thecartridge 1 is to be removably sealed, in installation.

B. The Filter Cartridge and Support Liner, FIGS. 45-53

In FIGS. 45-53, features of cartridge 1 in a form installable in the aircleaner assembly of FIGS. 44-46 are shown. This cartridge 1 is viewablein a side elevational view in FIG. 45 and end view in FIG. 46, the viewof FIG. 46 being toward the bottom end piece 11 and in cross-sectionalview in FIG. 47; the view of FIG. 47 being taken along line 47-47, FIG.46. The cartridge 1 can be seen to comprise media 2 around the centralcartridge interior 7, the media 2 having opposite ends 3 and 4, engagingopposite end pieces 10 and 11 respectively. End piece 11 is closed, andend piece 10 is open. A housing seal, in the example in the form ofradial seal 36 is viewable as an example outwardly directed radial sealan end piece 10. End piece 11 is closed, with a central recessprojection 45 that is closed defining a recess receiver 46 on a sidethereof not in flow communication with interior 7.

In FIG. 48, a plan view is depicted taken generally toward end piece 10.

In FIG. 48A, a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 48-48,FIG. 48 is viewable. Central receiver projection 45 can be viewedgenerally having an oval shape perimeter and a tapered conical shaped asit extends upwardly toward tip 45 t. It can be varied from the shape.Also, second housing engagement member 40 is viewable.

In FIGS. 49-53, features of an internal liner support 60 usable to flowcartridge of FIGS. 48-49 are provided. In FIG. 49, a schematicperspective view is provided. In FIG. 50, an end view, in FIGS. 51 and52, side elevational views are provided; and, in FIG. 53 across-sectional view is provided.

C. Demonstration of Attempt at Improper Installation, FIGS. 54-56;Options

From the above descriptions, it will be apparent that in manyapplications of the techniques described herein, the cartridge andhousing will be configured so that there is only one proper rotationalorientation of the cartridge, relative to the housing, duringinstallation. Alternatives are possible, but in typical preferredapplications this will be the case.

It is preferred to provide the cartridge and housing in a configurationsuch that the only possible installation orientation is also the oneproper one. A variety of features can be implemented to accomplish this.These features can be provided on the cartridge and housing, on thecartridge and access cover, or on all three.

In FIGS. 54-56, installation of cartridge 1 into a housing body 95 isdepicted. In these figures, the cartridge and housing are generally inaccord with FIG. 32, except the cartridge 1 has been rotated 180° aroundthe central axis of one of the two end pieces 10, 11, and thus is beingimproperly lowered into the housing body. As the cartridge 2 is beinglowered, at some point receiver 46, for example at engagement member 40,engages the projection 160. An example of such an engagement is shown inFIG. 54.

In FIG. 55, further lowering has occurred, and a cartridge 1 begins tojam, for example, as indicated at 400, beginning to indicate incorrectinstallation is occurring. Of course, the cartridge 1 can be wiggled andfurther installed in the example depicted, see FIG. 56. However, theinstaller can sense an improper installation due to improper alignmentbetween the projection 160 and the cartridge 46. Also, the access coverwill not properly install.

Of course, features can be modified to provide still stronger indicationof improper orientation and alignment, if desired. For example, andreferring to FIG. 54, recess or shoulder 160 s can be configured in acombination with a modified feature in recess 46 such that if the onedesired orientation is not obtained, installation will not occur due tostructural interference.

Additional structural features can also be used to ensure that aninstaller attempting to improperly install a cartridge will feel, ratherquickly, that the cartridge is not properly oriented to readily dropfully into the housing body 95 to become properly installed.

D. An Optional Safety Liner, FIG. 28

In FIG. 28, a cross-sectional view analogous to FIG. 31 is provided,except showing an optional safety filter or secondary filter 200′,schematically. The secondary or safety filter 200′ is shown positionedwith a first open outlet end piece 301′ engaging end piece 10 ofcartridge 1 by having a portion 301′x extending thereover. The safetyfilter 200 includes a liner or support member 302′ that projects intointerior 7 of main cartridge 1, to a closed end piece 305′. The closedend piece 305′ is configured with a member 310′ of projection/receiverarrangement 311′ thereon configured to receive projecting therein, theprojection 45 on the main cartridge 1 and projection 160 on the housing91. The support 302′ is depicted as a lattice framework, supporting themedia 320′ of the safety filter.

E. Example Dimensions

In the embodiment of FIGS. 29-30, some example dimensions were provided.These dimensions will indicate an example of a usable system, althoughalternate dimensions are possible. Referring to these figures: in FIG.34, QA=91.3 mm; and, QB=101.1 mm; in FIG. 35, QC=38°; QD=35°; QE=17.5°;QF=16.6 mm; QG=35°; QH=21.3 mm; QI=124.2 mm; QJ=221.8 mm; QK=17.5°;QL=28°; QM=114.5 mm; QN=197.5 mm; QO=35°; and, QP=17.6 mm; in FIG. 36,QQ=344 mm; QR=3.6 mm; QS=10 mm; QT=171.5 mm; and, QU=351.2 mm; in FIG.37, QV=309.2 mm; QW=76.5°; QX=2.2°; QY=11.8 mm; QZ=0.8 mm; RA=19.5 mm;and, RB=82 mm; in FIG. 38, RC=114.5 mm; RD=6.3 mm; and, RE=179 mm; inFIG. 41, RF=34.8°; RG=56.6°; RH=39.8 mm; and RI=119.6 mm; in FIG. 42,RJ=84.5°; RK=66°; RL=147.9 mm radius; RM=42°; RN=120°; RO=60°; RP=34.7°;RQ=76.7°; RR=49°; RS=36.1′; RT=142.3 mm radius; RU=11.0 mm radius; and,RV=147.5 mm radius; in FIG. 43, RW=170 mm; RX=3.9 mm; RY=1 mm; RZ=7.4mm; SA=3.5 mm; SB=29.8 mm; SC=77.0 mm; SD=10 mm; SE=5.5 mm; SF=264.1 mm;SG=265.4 mm; SH=26 mm; SI=2.3 mm; and, SJ=5.5 mm; in FIG. 44, SK=3.3 mm;SL=68 mm; SM=34.8 mm; SN=6 mm; and, SO=29 mm; in FIG. 46, SQ=23 mm; inFIG. 47, SS=23 mm; in FIG. 50, ST=45°; and, SU=4 mm; in FIG. 51, SV=12.9mm; in FIG. 52, SY=19.4 mm; SX=85 mm; and, SW=10 mm; and, in FIG. 53,SZ=252.6 mm; TA=18 mm; TB=490.4 mm; TC=9 mm; and, TD=164.6 mm.

VII. Selected Further Example Alternate Assemblies, Components Features,Techniques and Methods, FIGS. 57-78

A. An Alternate Example Assembly and Components; FIGS. 57-76

1. Alternate Seal Variation(s)

Herein above, at IV.B. some alternate seal configurations are discussed.An example discussed in connection with FIG. 25 was a seal shape of thegeneral type characterized in U.S. Ser. No. 13/662,022, incorporatedherein by reference. It is noted that U.S. Ser. No. 13/662,022 haspublished as US 2013/0263744 on Oct. 10, 2013; the publication US2013/0263744 being incorporated herein by reference. Further, acorresponding PCT application PCT/US2012/062265 has published as WO2013/063497 on May 2, 2013; WO 2013/063497 being incorporated herein byreference. In general, it will be understood that the sealconfigurations described and/or depicted in those incorporatedreferences can be used with a filter cartridge and air cleaner assemblyhaving general features in accord with the present disclosure, includingthe ones of FIGS. 1-56. Examples of this will be understood from anembodiment, and variations, discussed below, in connection with FIGS.57-76.

It is noted that additional seal variations are included in U.S. Ser.No. 14/266,560, filed Apr. 30, 2014. The variations can be included insystems having other features in accord with the disclosures herein. TheU.S. Ser. No. 14/266,560 application is incorporated herein byreference, in its entirety.

2. An Example Alternate Filter Cartridge, FIGS. 57-61

Referring to FIG. 57, the reference numeral 201 generally designates analternate filter cartridge according to the present disclosure. Thefilter cartridge 201, among other things, includes a housing sealarrangement as discussed below that is generally in accord with theteachings of U.S. Ser. No. 13/662,022; US 2013/0263744; and, PCT WO2013/063497 referenced above and incorporated by reference. Referring toFIG. 27, filter cartridge 201 generally comprises an extension of media202 extending between a first media end 203 and a second media end 204.For the particular example depicted, the depicted media 202 isconfigured surrounding an open filter interior 207. The media 202generally extends between: a first end piece (cap) 210 positioned at thefirst media end 203; and, second end piece (cap) 211, positioned at theopposite, second, end 204 of the media 202.

For the example filter cartridge 201 depicted, the first end piece 210is an open end piece 215 having central air flow aperture 216therethrough, in flow communication with the open filter interior 207.

As with previously described embodiments, for the example cartridge 201depicted, the second piece 211 is typically and preferably a closed endpiece 218. Also, although alternatives are possible, typically thecartridge 201 will be configured for “out-to-in” flow during filtering.Alternate or reverse flow is possible in some applications of thepresent techniques, however. When the cartridge 201 is configured andused for out-to-in flow during filtering, aperture 216 will be an outletaperture 216 o.

Typically, the media 202 will be pleated as shown schematically at 202 jin extension between ends 203, 204; i.e. the media 202 will be pleatedmedia 202 a comprising a plurality of pleats. Thus, the media 202 can beas discussed above for previously described embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 57, the cartridge 201 depicted is shown with anoptional adhesive bead 220 thereon, analogous to previously describedbead 20, surrounding the media 202 and engaging outer pleat tips. Thebead 220 will help secure the outer pleat tips in proper position,orientation and spacing during use.

As with previously described embodiments, the filter cartridge 201 canbe provided with an optional outer liner 221, surrounding an outerperimeter 202 o of the media 202. The liner can be as previouslydiscussed above, for other embodiments.

As discussed above for other embodiments, typically, and especially whenused with out-to-in flow arrangements, the cartridge 201 will beprovided with a preformed inner liner support structure 224 (or preform224 p) around which the media 202 is positioned. The preform or supportstructure 224 will typically comprise a relatively rigid structureincluding a portion that extends between the media ends 203, 204 and theend pieces 210, 211, to provide structural support to the media 202 andresulting cartridge 201. The inner liner 224 can comprise a variety ofmaterials including metal or plastic. For typical applications of thepresent techniques, the inner liner 224 (and overall preform 224 p) willoften be a molded plastic construction. An example such construction isdepicted in FIG. 57C.

As thus far described, the filter cartridge 201 can be generallyanalogous to cartridge 1, discussed above. In FIG. 57, however, thecartridge 201 is depicted with an alternate housing seal arrangement (inspecific detail) from that depicted in connection with cartridge 1. Thealternate housing seal arrangement is generally in accord with sealarrangements described and/or depicted in: U.S. Ser. No. 13/662,022; US2013/0263744; and, PCT WO 2013/063497, incorporated herein by reference.The variations described in these references can be used.

Referring to FIG. 57, attention is directed to end piece 210, inparticular to housing seal arrangement 234. The housing seal arrangement234 depicted is configured as a radial seal arrangement 235. Inparticular, the example housing seal arrangement 240 is depicted as anoutwardly (or radially outwardly) directed housing radial seal 236,although alternatives are possible. The radial seal 236 in this instanceis an outer perimeter seal surface 236 x which surrounds perimeterportion 237 of end piece 210. In the example depicted, portion 237 ofend piece 210 is configured to define a (perimeter) seal surface 236 xthat is non-circular in perimeter definition. In the example theperimeter shape is depicted in a manner comprising alternating convex(outwardly facing) surface sections 236 o and concave (outwardly facing)sections 236 i, as the surface 236 x extends (continuously) peripherallyaround a central seal axis X (or seal center C). That is, section 236 ogenerally curves radially outwardly away from such an axis X, or sealcenter C and sections 236 i generally curve radially inwardly towardcentral axis X, or center C, as surface 236 x undulates in its path ofextension peripherally around central axis X. This type of seal can beadvantageous, as described in the cited references. The surface 236 xcan be constructed using the techniques described in those references,and referenced below herein. Herein, when a reference is made to a sealaxis or to a seal center, the reference is meant to define an axis orcenter point of the seal surface definition. The center or axis willtypically be located at a position defined by the intersection of: afirst longest line across the seal surface perimeter; and, a lineperpendicular to that longest line, taken through a center of the firstline. This would be a similar definition to the analogous centersdiscussed previously for the previously described embodiments.

Still referring to FIG. 57, as a result of the shape defined, the sealsurface 236 x can be characterized as comprising a plurality of lobes(in regions 236 o) that are outwardly directed, and which are separatedby recesses (in region 236 i).

Typically there will be at least three such lobes, usually at leastfour, and often a number within the range of 4-12, inclusive. In theexample depicted, there are six lobes.

In other fashions, the cartridge 1 can be generally analogous tocartridge 1, FIGS. 1-6. Variations are possible, however.

In FIG. 57A, a first cross-sectional view of cartridge 201 is depicted.Analogous reference numerals indicate analogous parts. In FIG. 57A, thedesignation X₁, C₁, shows a central axis or center for selected featuresof the first end cap 210, including: an outer perimeter of the end cap;a seal surface 236 x; and, central aperture 216; and, a center of anouter liner 205; preform 224 p; and, outer and inner perimeters of media203, in regions adjacent end cap 210.

In FIG. 57A, line X₂ and analogous center C₂ are generally centerfeatures associated with lower end cap 211, and the media end 204 (andfeatures adjacent thereto). It can be seen from a review of FIG. 57Athat X₁, C₁ are offset from X₂, C₂; i.e. the associated features of endcap 210 are eccentrically positioned relative to end cap 211, in mannersgenerally analogous to those discussed above in connection with FIGS.1-56.

In FIG. 57B, one can see a second cross-sectional view of cartridge 201taken generally at a right angle to the view of FIG. 57A.

In FIG. 57C, one can view a support 224 comprising a preform 224 p,usable to form the cartridge 201. Among other things, upon review ofFIG. 57C, one can view the support 224 as including a seal supportmember 224 m comprising undulating surface around a center or centralseal axis, X₁, C₁, FIG. 56A, with alternating outwardly convex (lobes)portions 224 x and outwardly directed concave (recess) portions 224 i.Surface 224 m is generally a support surface to a seal such as housingseal arrangement 235. In the example, surface 224 m is positioned inoverlap with media end 203 at a location between inner and outer pleattips.

It will be understood that to construct cartridge 201, the preform 224 pcan be provided with appropriate media wrapped therearound. The mediacould be provided in a form having an outer liner and/or beadarrangement, if desired. The various end pieces 210, 211 would becompleted by placing an appropriate end of the media packs/preform intoa mold with resin appropriate to form molded-in-place sections. Thematerials used for the molded-in-place portions of end pieces 210, 211can be described above for the embodiments involving FIGS. 1-56.

The molding operation can be conducted analogously to the descriptionsin U.S. Ser. No. 13/662,022; US 2013/0263744; and, PCT WO 2013/063497,incorporated by reference.

In FIG. 58, a second outlet end perspective view of cartridge 201 isdepicted, the view of FIG. 58 showing more interior features thanviewable in FIG. 57. Housing seal arrangement 234, with outwardlydirected radial seal surface 236 x is viewed, with the alternatingradially (outwardly) convex and radially (inwardly) concave sections 236o and 236 i respectively. In FIG. 57, further features of the cartridge201 in interior 207 are viewable. In particular more features of liner224 (and preform 224 p) can be seen. The example liner 224 can be viewedas having a plurality of spaced longitudinal (fin) extensions 224 f andspaced radial ribs 224 r, (see also FIG. 57C). An interior centralsurface portion 211 i of end piece 211 is also viewable. In the examplecartridge depicted, this interior central surface portion 211 i isclosed, and comprises a central portion 211 c of end piece 211, whichcan comprise a portion of a preform 224 p used to provide support 224.Such a component is discussed further below.

In FIG. 59, a view is shown oriented such that only an outer axialsurface portion 210 s if end piece 210 and interior portions ofcartridge 201 through aperture 216 o are viewable. Again, the generalconfiguration of housing seal surface 236 x can be seen. Referring toFIG. 59, end piece 210 can be seen as defining a perimeter region 210 pand a projection section 210 x. The projection section 210 x defines,along a periphery (perimeter) thereof, housing seal surface 236 x.Again, referring to FIG. 59, interior 207 is viewable, with the preform224 p therein.

In FIG. 60, a view taken toward end piece 211 is shown. Here, the closedend 211 can be seen as comprising a molded-in-place ring portion 211 rwith central closure 211 p. Ring segments 227 p can be analogous to ringsegments 27 p, discussed above; and, section 211 p can be viewed asprojection somewhat analogous to projection 45 extending into opencartridge interior 207 toward end piece 210. Section 211 p (see FIG.57C) can be configured to engage in a preferred manner, a housingsection analogously to projection 45, as discussed further below.

In FIG. 60A, a view similar to FIG. 60 is depicted, but offset slightlyto see other features of cartridge 201.

The cartridge 201 can be implemented with an eccentricity similar tothat for cartridge 1, if desired. In FIG. 61, a schematic representationshowing eccentricity defined by a selected media perimeter 203 p, at end203, and a media perimeter 204 p at end 204 is shown. The eccentricity Zcan be seen as defined by the offsets P and Q respectively.

Variations in the media pack discussed above for cartridge 1 can beapplied in connection with the cartridge 201, analogous to cartridge 1.

Herein above, reference was made to “molded-in-place” portions of endpiece 210 and 211. With respect to end piece 210, these portions areindicated in FIGS. 57A and 57B at 210 m. In general, 210 m includesportions of media 203, any outer liner, and portions of support 224 pembedded therein.

The molded-in-place portions of end piece 211 generally are indicated inFIGS. 57A and 57B at 211 m. In general they comprise portions of endpiece 211, any outer liner, end 204 of the media 202, and a closed endportion of preform 224 p embedded therein.

C. An Example Air Cleaner Assembly and Assembly Components, FIGS. 62-76

In FIGS. 62-76, an air cleaner assembly, and components thereof, usingcartridge 201 in accord with FIGS. 57-61 is shown generally at 290. Theair cleaner assembly 290 can, if desired, be generally analogous to aircleaner assembly 90, discussed above, except as modified for engagementwith cartridge 201.

Referring to FIG. 62, the air cleaner assembly 290 can be seen ascomprising a housing 291. The housing 291 would define an interior, inwhich cartridge 201 is (or would be) operably positioned for use.

The particular air cleaner 290 depicted is configured with a housing 291that would typically be oriented for use in the orientation shown, i.e.with a long dimension extending generally vertically in use. Principlesof the present application are particularly well-adapted for such use.However, as with air cleaner 90, alternate orientations of housings arepossible with selected applications of the techniques described herein.

Still referring to FIG. 62, as a result of the orientation, housing 291has a first (top) end 291 t and a second, opposite, (bottom) end 291 b.Also, as with the previously described air cleaner assembly 90, end 291b is provided with an optional evacuator arrangement 293 thereon.

As previously discussed with air cleaner assembly 90, typically thecartridge 201 is removable, and replaceable, in the air cleaner housing291. To account for this, housing 291 generally includes a body or bodyportion 295 and removable access cover portion 296. During servicing, orother removal/installation operations involving the cartridge 201, theaccess cover 296 is removed from the (lower) body portion 295, allowingaccess to the internally received cartridge 201. After servicing orother operation, the access cover 296 is then replaced on the body part295, in which the cartridge 201 is appropriately positioned and withinstallation of the access cover 296 resulting in proper sealing. Forthe example air cleaner assembly 290 depicted, the access cover 296would be secured to the body part 291 by fasteners, for examplecomprising bolts (not shown) in holders 299. Alternate types of fastenerarrangements can be used in some applications.

For the example air cleaner assembly 290 depicted, the main body 295 isoptionally constructed in two separate sections that are secured to oneanother after formation, analogously to housing body 95 discussed above.The two sections are indicated by housing body central section 300 andhousing body (closed) end section 301. In the example, the evacuatorarrangement 293 is positioned in the housing body (closed) end section301.

A joint between the sections 300, 301 is indicated at 305. Analogouslyto assembly 90, the joint 305 can be a snap-fit arrangement withprojections on section 301 snap-fit into holders on section 300 (or viceversa). As with a previously described air cleaner assembly 90,application the joint 305 is configured and made such that onceassembled; section 301 cannot be readily disconnected from section 300.

In alternate applications, the bottom end portion 301 of the housing canbe made to be removable from the central portion 300. Thus, it could beattached by alternate means such as bolts or over center latches thatcan be disconnected. When this is the case, the assembly 290 can beserviced through the bottom end of the central section 300, if desired.As with previously discussed embodiments, when bottom end 301 isdesigned to be removable, typically the mounting pad will all be locatedon a central section 300.

Still referring to FIG. 62, for the example air cleaner assembly 290, anoutlet 315 for filtered gas flow from the air cleaner 290 is indicatedon the housing 291. For the particular example depicted, the outlet 315is positioned on or in the access cover 296. This will be typical formany applications of the techniques are described herein, althoughalternatives are possible.

Still referring to FIG. 62, at 320, an inlet for gas (typically air) tobe filtered is indicated. Analogously to inlet 120, inlet 320 is aslanted, tangential, inlet 321, although alternatives are possible.Preferred features characterized above in connection with inlet 120 andits relationship to other features of the assembly 90 can be used forinlet 320 and its relationship to other features and housing 291.

In FIG. 63, a side elevational view generally opposite the view of FIG.62 is shown with like reference numerals indicating the same generalfeatures or parts. Referring to FIGS. 62-63 at 330 a mounting padarrangement for the assembly is generally depicted. It is via thismounting pad arrangement 330 that the assembly 290 can be mounted onequipment, such as a vehicle, for use. Of course alternate mountingarrangements are possible.

In FIG. 64, a third side elevational view is shown, the view generallybe taken from the left side of FIG. 62, and/or the right side of FIG.63. Again, like reference numerals indicate like parts.

In FIG. 65, a bottom plan view of the air cleaner assembly 290 isdepicted. Mounting pads 330 can be seen. In FIG. 65, analogous referencenumerals to those used with respect to FIGS. 62-64, indicate analogousfeatures.

In FIG. 66, a top perspective view of air cleaner assembly 290 isdepicted with access cover 296, FIG. 62, 63 removed. Thus, housing body295 can be viewed with cartridge 201 positioned therein.

From a review of FIG. 66, it will be understood that the access cover296 would need to include a seal surface for engagement with a housingseal arrangement 235 to properly seal the cartridge 201 in place.Features of the access cover 296 that provide for this will beunderstood from the descriptions below in connection with FIGS. 67, 68.Before turning to those Figs., in FIG. 66 attention is directed tolongitudinal extensions or fins 224 f in the interior 207 of cartridge201. In particular, attention is directed to end portions 224 e of thoselongitudinal extensions or fins 224 f, adjacent end piece 210.

These ends 224 e of longitudinal extensions or fins 224 f can be used,to advantage, to index portion of the cartridge preform 224 p to a mold,when molded-in-place portions 210 m of end piece 210 are molded-in-placeon the media 202 and preform 224 p. This helps properly position thevarious convex and concave portions of the to be formed in seal surface236 x, relative to other portions of the preform 224 p for cartridge201, during assembly. This is described, for example in U.S. Ser. No.13/662,022; US 2013/0263744; and, WO 2013/0063497. Analogous techniquescan be used for the assembly of cartridge 201.

Herein, flange 352 will sometimes be characterized as being an “innerindexing flange with a radial alignment receiving arrangement” therein;and, the end(s) 324 e of the fin(s) 324 f that are received within thereceiver 352 r of the “inner indexing flange having a “radial alignmentreceiver arrangement “therein” will sometimes be characterized as radialalignment indexing projection(s) received in the radial alignmentreceiving arrangement” or by similar terms.

Attention is now directed to FIGS. 67 and 68, in which an inside surfaceor portion 296 i of access cover 296 is shown in two perspective views.Referring first to FIG. 67, the access cover 296 can be viewed withoutlet tube 315. Since the view is toward an interior 296 i, housingseal surface 350 is viewable. The housing seal surface 350 is configuredas a housing seal flange 350 f to be sealingly engaged by the housingseal arrangement 235 on cartridge 201. Since the particular housing sealarrangement 235 of cartridge 201, is a radially outwardly directed sealsurface having alternating convex and concave portions, surface 350 isanalogously shaped, in a manner to mate. Thus, it includes outwardlycurved (concave) portions 350 x to mate with lobes or regions 236 o;and, inwardly curved concave sections 350 i to mate with recesses orsections 236 i.

Indexing of access cover 296 rotationally relative to the cartridge 201,FIG. 66, will be desirable. To provide for this, the access cover 296includes, on interior 296 i, an indexing projection 352. The exampleindexing projection 352 depicted is arcuate, and does not extend in afull circle, but it could. It includes receiver recess(es) 352 rtherein, to selectively receive end(s) 224 e, FIG. 66, of fins 224 fduring installation. The projection/receiver arrangement between thereceiver(s) 352 r and the fin end(s)224 e, provides for a rotationalalignment projection/receiver (or indexing) arrangement, to ensure thatthe access cover 296 is oriented appropriately for proper installationon the remainder 295 of the housing with proper sealing of the housingseal arrangement 234 to seal surface 350. This means that the variouslobes of the depicted seal surface 236 will be properly aligned with thevarious recesses 350 x for proper sealing.

In FIG. 68, analogous features are viewable and indicated by analogousreference numerals. Also referring to FIG. 68, at 355, an irregularityin surface 356 is provided. The example irregularity 355 is a trough (inthe view of FIG. 68).

In general, surface 356 overlaps end surface 210 e of projection region237, FIG. 57, of the cartridge 201. It is projection region 210 c thatforms, around its periphery, the seal surface 236.

It is preferable that surface 356 not be used as a seal surface. This isbecause in a typical housing it would not necessarily be configuredappropriately and be made to appropriate standards for such a use. Toinhibit undesirable use of surface 356 as a sealing surface, trough 355is provided.

With respect to the arrangement of FIGS. 1-56, projection/receiverarrangements are discussed with respect to the closed end piece 211 andthe housing bottom or end 296. Analogous arrangements can be used inconnection with cartridge 201 of FIGS. 57-61 and the assembly andcomponents of FIGS. 62-76.

With respect to this, attention is directed to FIG. 73, across-sectional view of air cleaner assembly 290. Here, cartridge 201can be seen as positioned within interior 291 i of housing 291. Thecartridge 201 can be seen as having, at closed end 211, a centralprojection 400 analogous to projection 45, FIG. 3. This projection 400is defined by central portion 211 c of end piece 211. The centralportion 211 c can be formed as part of preform 224 p.

The exterior side 400 x (side away from end piece 210) of projection 400defines a receiver member of a projection/receiver arrangement 401,along with guide projection 402 on the air cleaner end 296.

The projection/receiver arrangement 401 can be generally configuredanalogously to arrangements described above in connection with otherembodiments, including with respect to such features as size, amount ofprojection, shape, etc. Thus, in general, the characterization ofanalogous features in connection with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-56 canbe applied with respect to the embodiment of FIGS. 57-76, if desired.

In many instances, it is desirable to install the cartridge 201 in thehousing 291, in a selected rotational orientation, as discussed above inconnection with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-56. The projection/receiverarrangement 401 can be configured to provide for this. Referring to FIG.74, exterior side 400 x of projection 400 in the cartridge 201 includesan interior projecting fin, rib or (indexing) projection 410 thereon.This projection or (indexing) projecting member 410 is configured sothat it will only engage the projection 402 in the bottom 296 of thehousing 291, permitting full insertion, in selected radial orientation.This can be understood from FIG. 74, in which projection 402 is seen asincluding a (indexing) slot or receiver 420 on an interior surfacethereof (facing toward cartridge end piece 210) into which theprojection 410 on cartridge 201 extends as it is lowered into the bottompart 296 of the housing, but only when rotational orientation, betweenthe cartridge 201 and housing, is as selected.

Herein, the projection/receiver arrangement comprising the guide radialprojection 410 and the slot or receiver 420 will sometimes be referredto as a “radial alignment indexing projection/receiver arrangement” orby similar terms, with one member positioned on a second end piece andthe other member positioned on the housing.

Of course, the projection/receiver arrangement can be configured toallow for more than one rotational orientation is possible. However,especially when the cartridge 201 has an eccentric construction ascharacterized herein, it will often be preferred that only one radialorientation be obtainable.

Still referring to FIG. 74, it can be seen that projection 402 has ageneral conical shape with an oval cross-section, except a portion atside 402 c is “caved in” slightly, analogously to previously describedembodiments, to facilitate desirable installation.

An interference arrangement between the cartridge 201 and the housingbottom is described, for resistance to pulling the cartridge away fromthe housing body, until adequate force was applied, analogous to thosedescribed above. With respect to this, attention is directed to thedescription of FIG. 75.

FIG. 75 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view depicting alower end portion of assembly 290. At 211 m, resilient material formingpart of end closure 211 is shown. In includes region 430 lining aninterior of a recess 211 r in end piece 211 of the cartridge 201. Thismaterial is configured to engage an end portion of projection 402 on thehousing base analogously to the embodiments described above As withprevious embodiments, the amount of resistance put at this location canbe used to facilitate retention of the cartridge 201 in the housing base295 as the access cover 296 is removed. If desired, the resistance tolifting the cartridge 201 during access cover 296 removal can beincreased, by providing a bead or detailed arrangement on an appropriateportion of projection 402.

Region 430 can be defined as having/defining an inner perimeterdefinition analogous to those described above in connection with FIGS.1-56, with respect to shape, eccentricity, etc.

In FIG. 76, a schematic view is shown depicting the cartridge accesscover 296 being lowered onto the cartridge 201. It is noted, of course,that this engagement would typically occur when the cartridge 201 isinstalled in the housing body 295.

It will be understood that the variations of cartridge 201 and assembly290 can be implemented in the arrangement of FIGS. 1-56. Further, thevariations described for the arrangements of FIGS. 1-56 can beimplemented with selected features from the arrangement of FIGS. 57-78.The teachings herein are meant to indicate features that can beimplemented in or more embodiments.

As to the seal member of cartridge 201, with undulation as it extendsperipherally around the central seal axis X, variations in the number oflobes and specific shapes of the lobe can be used. It will be typicallythe case that the arrangement has 2 to 12 lobes, usually at least 3lobes and not more than 10 lobes, often 4-8 lobes, typically separatedby radially inwardly directed recesses or sections. It will alsotypically be the case that the seal is configured for outwardly directedsealing. However, alternate configurations, for example ones withradially inwardly directed seals can be used.

It is noted that there is no specific requirement that the housing sealarrangement have evenly spaced lobes or variations therein. Alternativescan be used in arrangements according to the present disclosure.

The variations described above will indicate that principles accordingto the present disclosure could be implemented in cartridges having awide variety of seal surface configurations.

It is noted that the various variations of FIGS. 57-76 can beimplemented with a secondary or safety filter, in accord with thegeneral principles described above with respect to the arrangements ofFIGS. 1-56.

D. The Variations of FIGS. 77-78

Alternate projection/receiver arrangements to those described above (oralternate such arrangements which also include those described above) atthe interaction between the filter cartridge 201 and a housing body 295can be used, for radial alignment or indexing, between the housing andcartridge. In FIGS. 77-78, some variations are shown and described.These can be implemented with either the arrangements of FIGS. 1-56 orthe arrangements of FIGS. 57-76, and alternatives thereof. The exampleprojection/receiver arrangement shown in these figures, is generallybased on analogous arrangements, but between an access cover and afilter cartridge, as in U.S. Pat. No. 8,292,984; U.S. Ser. No.12/218,580; PCT WO 2009/014982, and incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to FIG. 77, a fragmentary cross-sectional view is depicted ofcartridge 501 positioned in housing 502 to form assembly 503.

The portion of cartridge 501 depicted is a portion adjacent the portionthe closed end 511, i.e. opposite the housing seal end. The end piece511 depicted, then, is generally analogous to end pieces 11, 211. Itincludes molded-in-place portion 511 m and central portion 520 which isformed as part of a central preform 524. Here the central portion 524includes a central projection 560 extending away from the first endpiece and toward the bottom end 502 e of the housing. This projectioncomprises a wall 560 w surrounding a central region 560 c, thus it hasinner surface 560 i and outer surface 560 x. For the example depicted,the (opposite) inner and outer surfaces are non-circular, in the exampleserpentine or undulating, as can be seen in FIG. 77A.

Analogously, the housing end 502 e, FIG. 77, includes a recess trough orgroove 570, sized and configured to receive projection 560 therein, whencomplete installation occurs. This groove or trough 570 will generallybe open toward the cartridge and shaped to receive whatever the shape ofprojection 560 is. Thus, it can be configured with a non-circular (forexample serpentine) shape itself, between inner and outer walls 570 i,570 x, as can be understood from FIG. 77B, an end view taken toward thegroove 570.

It is noted that the serpentine shape or non-circular shape to theprojection 560 and groove 570 can be used as a radial alignment indexingprojection/receiver arrangement, allowing for multiple radialorientations.

Of course, alternate shapes for the projection/receiver can be used. Forexample, the projection 560 can be configured asymmetrically, and thetrough 570 configured asymmetrically, so that only one rotationalorientation between the two is possible for installation. This can bedone, for example, by having one of the undulations extend eitherradially outwardly or radially inwardly more than the others.

In variations, the projection can be positioned on a housing bottom, andthe groove or trough positioned on the cartridge, open toward the closedhousing end or bottom, i.e. in a direction away from the first, open,end cap. An example of this is shown in cross-section in FIG. 78.Referring to FIG. 78, cartridge 60 l is depicted in housing section 602.Projection 660 on the housing section would be received within trough orgroove 670 on the cartridge when installation occurs. The shapes of thegroove and projection can be similar to those described above for FIGS.77 and 77A.

From the above, alternate variations will be understood. A variety ofdifferent shapes can be used for the projection/receiver arrangementdescribed in this section. There is also no specific requirement thatthe projection member (member 560, FIG. 77 and member 660, FIG. 78) becontinuous in this extension around a center, although this will betypical.

There is no specific requirement that each of the projection andreceiver have a undulating or serpentine definition, although this willbe typical as well, when the variations of this section are used. Thenumber of undulations and/or projections can be varied. The examplesdepicted have about 2-12 members. However, typically the number will beat least two, and usually within the range of 4-10 often 6-10.

With respect to the general definitions of these features, the featuresof U.S. Pat. No. 8,292,984; U.S. Ser. No. 12/218,580; and, WO2009/014982 are incorporated herein by reference.

It is noted that the variation of FIGS. 77-78 can be implemented withvarious ones of the housing features described in other embodimentsherein.

IX. Some Additional Variations, FIGS. 79-105

A. Example Alternate Assembly Options, FIGS. 79-82

In FIGS. 79-82, an additional assembly using principles in accord withthe present disclosure are provided. It is noted that many of theoptions of FIGS. 79-82 can be implemented with selected features of theother embodiments described herein.

Referring first to FIG. 79, at 700, an air cleaner assembly is depicted.The air cleaner assembly 708 comprises a housing 701 having a first airflow tube 702, and a second air flow tube 703 thereon. For a typicalout-to-in flow use, tube 702 would be used as an outlet flow tube forfiltered air, and tube 703 would be used as an inlet flow tube for airflow of air to be filtered by the air cleaner assembly 700. However,alternate practices can be used.

For the housing 701 depicted, tube 702 is a portion of a first removableaccess cover 705; removably secured to end 701 a of a housing centralsection 706 by latches 705 a.

The housing 701 includes a second removable end 707. Removable end 707can be used as a service access, for example to facilitate cleaning. Insome applications, the principles herein can also be used as an accessend for removal and installation of an internally received filtercartridge. The removable end 707 is secured in place on central section706 by latches 707 a (to end 701 b of the housing central section 706).

In some instances, then, an internally received, serviceable, filtercartridge will be sized such that it can be installed (or be removed)through either end 701 a (upon removal of first access cover 705) orthrough end 701 b (upon removal of second access cover 707) or both.

In alternate practices, end 707 can be the only removable end, with end705 permanently positioned. However, having both ends removable andserviceable, will be preferred in some instances. It is noted thathaving both ends similarly removable (or the bottom and removable andserviceable) and serviceable can be a technique applied with the variousembodiments described herein.

Still referring to FIG. 79, it is noted that inlet 703 is a slantedinlet, for example generally analogous to inlets previously discussed.It is not, however, depicted as a tangential inlet. However, it could beadvantageously configured as a tangential inlet.

In FIG. 80, a second side elevational view is depicted with portionsshown in cross-section to depict an internally positioned filtercartridge 710. The filter cartridge 710 comprises media 711 having firstand second, opposite, ends 711 a, 711 b. The media 711 is positionedsurrounding an open interior 711 i.

The cartridge 710 includes, positioned at media end 711 a, a first endpiece 712. The first end piece 712 can be configured analogously tosimilar end pieces in various embodiments described herein. Theparticular end piece 712 depicted, is shown having a portion 712 mmolded-in-place on end 711 a and having a seal member 712 s oriented tosealingly engage the housing 701 when the cartridge 710 has beenpositioned. A variety of seals or seal types can be used at thislocation, or at other locations or alternate practices. Typically, theseal will be radially directed. However, in the particular example,member 712 s depicted is an axial seal. Indeed as depicted it comprisesa perimeter pinch seal, with sealing occurring between housing sections705, 706.

At end 711 b, the cartridge 710 includes a second end piece 713. The endpiece 713 can be constructed in a variety of ways and may be constructedwith various ones of the alternate features described herein. Theparticular end piece 713 includes a molded-in-place peripheral potion713 m and a central preform section 713 b that extends across, and inthe example closes, the interior 711 i adjacent end 711 b. Preformsection 713 b includes an optional projecting ring 713 r thereon thatextends around an interior, space or recess 713 s to define a projectionmember for optional engagement with a portion of a housing in use.Member 713 r can be a circular projection, or a particular projectionhaving a serpentine shape in extension around a central or interiorrecess, for example with a plurality of lobes.

In the particular assembly 700 depicted, the housing 701 does notinclude a member for engagement with projection member 713 r. However,in other embodiments described, approaches to allow for such anengagement are discussed.

Still referring to FIG. 80, at 715, a molded-in-place portion 713 m ofthe end piece 713 includes a resistive housing engagement portion,generally analogous to portions discussed previously herein. It is notedthat the particular housing 701 depicted is shown schematically, andthus the resistive housing engagement portion 715 is not used. However,the housing could be modified to use such an arrangement analogously toother embodiments discussed herein.

Still referring to FIG. 80, end piece 712 is an open end piece havingcentral aperture 712 o therein, in direct flow communication withinterior 711 i.

The filter cartridge 70 depicted includes a central liner 716 extendingbetween end pieces 712, 713 and having the filter media 711 positionedthereon. The liner 716 is typically and preferably part of a preform717. In the example depicted, the preform 717 includes, as an integralportion thereof, central portion 713 b of end piece 713.

Still referring to FIG. 80, inlet 703 can be viewed as a slanted; andoutlet 702 is generally an axial outlet.

The media and/or cartridge features may be configured with shapevariations (i.e. eccentricity) as described herein for a variety ofembodiments. It may be generally cylindrical (but eccentric) or it mayconical.

In FIG. 81, a plan view directed toward the outlet end of the housingfor the 701 for the assembly 700 is depicted. It can be understood thanfrom FIG. 81 that for the example depicted, the media is configured in asomewhat oval pattern. An oval pattern can be used for the media invariations as other embodiments described herein.

In FIG. 82, a schematic exploded view of assembly 700 is depicted. Itcan be seen that the cartridge 710 can be removed one the access cover705 is separated. It can also be seen that access cover 707 can also beremoved.

Referring to FIG. 80, with an axial pinch seal depicted, the cartridge710 could not be removed from the end opened by access cover 707, unlessa very flexible seal is used. However, if a radial seal is used in placeof pinch seal 712 s, then such a removal would be relativelystraightforward. Whether or not the cartridge can be removed through end701 b, having cover 707 removable can be advantageous, for example withrespect to: assembly; and/or cleaning.

By the above, it is not meant to be indicated that a pinch seal or axialseal could never be used with a unit serviceable from both ends.Configurations to accomplish this could be developed. For example, andreferring to FIG. 82, if the seal were an axial projection sealcomprised by engaging projection 712 p, with a portion of access cover705 under pressure provided by latches 705 a, or other structure, thenthe outer perimeter portion 712 x of end piece 712 could be sufficientlysmall to allow the cartridge 712 to be removed from housing end 701 bwhen access cover 707 is removed. Alternately stated, the housingcentral section 706 could be defined with an end 701 a that did not havea shelf therein for seal.

In general terms, the schematic depiction of FIGS. 79-82 is meant toindicate some options or principles that be applied with a variety ofarrangements according to the present disclosure. First, both ends ofthe housing could be made removable. Secondly, alternate sealing (forexample) to radial sealing can be used. Also, oval shape for thecartridges is possible. Further, the housing could be configured with aninlet directed toward a central axis rather than tangential, even whenit is slanted. Further, the housing can be configured such that eventhough the cartridge has a projection arrangement for engagement withthe housing at the closed end, the housing itself is not configured forsuch engagement. Similarly it can be configured such that even if thecartridge has a resistive engagement arrangement at the closed end, thehousing is configured not to use engagement with that arrangement.

Herein, when a seal is characterized as “axial” it is meant that theseal force involving a seal member are generally directed in-line withan axis surrounded by the seal. An axis seal could, for example, beformed by pushing a seal positioned on an end piece against a housingmember by axial forces, i.e. generally forces in the direction of themedia. Another type of axial seal is an axial pinch seal, in which theseal member becomes pinched between separable housing sections, with theforces generally again aligned with an axis surrounded by the sealmember.

In various ones of FIGS. 79-82, some selected dimensions are provided asfollows: WA=166.2 mm; WB=330 mm; WC=35.4 mm; WD=546 mm; WE=30°; WF=216mm; WG=380 mm; and, WH=216 mm; and, WL=166.2 mm. Of course, alternatedimensions can be used with the principles characterized herein. Thedimensions provided, however, can be applied to understand exampleapplications of the techniques characterized.

It will be understood that the variations discussed in this section,with respect to FIGS. 71-82 can be implemented independently orcollectively in various combinations, with the features in the variousembodiments described herein. The assembly depicted schematically by thedrawings of FIGS. 79-82 is mean to be indicative of principles andstructural features that can be implemented in a variety of ways, andnot to necessarily represent any given preferred arrangement accordingto the present disclosure.

B. An Additional Example Cartridge, FIGS. 83-87

In FIGS. 83-87, an additional filter cartridge indicating featuresusable in arrangements according to the present disclosure is depicted.In FIG. 83, a perspective view is provided. The reference numeral 801generally indicates the filter cartridge variation. The filter cartridge801 is shown with break lines Z indicating that the length is variable.A typical length would the scale indicated by the depicted distancebetween the opposites ends or end pieces; and, the portion shown at thebreak lines Z would typically be filled in with continuance of the linesshown. However, alternates are possible.

Referring to FIG. 112, the filter cartridge 801 comprises filter media802 extending between first and second end pieces 803, 804. End piece803 is depicted in the embodiment as open; i.e. having central air flowaperture arrangement or aperture 803 o therethrough. End piece 804 wouldtypically be closed, with no aperture therethrough in communication withthe cartridge interior.

Media 802 extends around an open central interior 802 i. In the exampleshown, frame piece 807 is depicted with the filter media 802 wrappedtherearound.

In general, the media 802 will typically be pleated, but alternativesare possible. Typically, the media 802 will be configured ascharacterized previously herein, with respect to eccentricities betweenopposite ends 802 a, 802 b. However, alternatives are possible. Themedia 802 may be generally configured as a cylinder, but distorted forthe eccentricity; however, it could, alternatively, be provided with analternate shape, for example an cross-sectional oval shape.

The cartridge 801 can be provided with: an outer liner generally inaccord with descriptions herein above; an optional pleat bead 802 b, ascharacterized herein; or, both as desired.

End piece 803 has a seal arrangement projection or bulge 805 thereon,configured in accord with descriptions as found in U.S. Ser. No.13/662,022 and U.S. Ser. No. 14/266,560, incorporated herein byreference, as a seal projection. The seal arrangement 805 has a radiallyoutwardly directed surface 805 x comprising alternating (outward) convexsections or lobes 8051 and inner concave sections or recesses 805 r.Surface 805 x can be used as a radially (outwardly) directed sealingsurface, as discussed below. When it is so used, in general, the sealsurface 805 x would represent a non-circular, radially outwardly,directed, seal surface; generally undulating in shape in extensionaround a center of the seal or central axis defined by the seal. Thisseal surface can be centered on/around an axis extending through acenter of aperture 803 o and end cap 803, or it can be offset from thataxis.

It is noted, however, that in some applications, surface 805 x will notbe used as a seal surface. This will be understood from the followingcharacterization of the inner surface 805 i as well as discussions belowin connection with FIGS. 101-105.

Still referring to FIG. 83 and sealing bulge 805, attention is directedto the radially inwardly directed to the radially inwardly directedsurface 805 i. In the example depicted, surface 805 i is alsonon-circular in extension around aperture 803 o and a central axis ofthe sealing bulge 805. The particular surface 805 i depicted, comprisesa plurality of spaced inwardly directed lobes or convex sections 805 yalternating with concave sections or recesses 805 z. Surface 805 i canbe configured to be used as a radially (inwardly directed) sealingsurface, generally comprising a non-circular seal shape in extensionaround the central aperture 85 o and/or central axis.

It will be understood that either or both of surfaces 805 x, 805 i canbe used as a sealing surface. This is discussed below in connection withFIGS. 81-85. Referring to FIG. 83, it is noted that sealing bulge orprojection 805 is relatively narrow; i.e. it has a narrower width thanthe dimension across end piece 803. This means that the sealing bulge805 can be configured from molded-in-place material in a manner thatconserves material use.

Still referring to FIG. 83, it can be seen that the housing sealarrangement, the form sealing bulge 805, and/or, as defined by whichever(or both) surfaces 805 x, 805 i is used for sealing, it can becharacterized as being “axially aligned” with an end of the media 802;or, as being “in axial overlap” therewith. By this it is meant that thebulge and/or surface characterized, is positioned in alignment with anend of the media 802, that is embedded in end piece 803, rather thanbeing positioned radially interiorly thereof or radially exteriorlythereof. This can be advantageous with respect to management of radialspace issues, for example.

In FIG. 84, a plan view taken generally toward end piece 803 and sealingbulge 805 is shown. One can see, in FIG. 84, portion of central preform810 around which the filter media 802, FIG. 83, is positioned. Thepreform 810 includes a liner 8101 around which the filter media 802 ispositioned, and an end section 810 e which closes an end of thecartridge 801 adjacent end piece 804. The end 810 e can have an optionalcentral receiver projection 810 r thereon, extending toward the viewerin the orientation of FIG. 84. That projection 810 can have a centralportion 810 c with a member of a projection/receiver arrangement 810 mthereon, for engagement with a housing. This member 810 m can be inaccord with the variations discussed herein above in connection withvariations discussed herein.

The preform 810 would also typically include a portion extending over anend of the media embedded in end piece 803 that supports the seal ofprojection 805. This could generally be in accord with analogousarrangements discussed herein, or in U.S. Ser. No. 13/662,022 and/orU.S. Ser. No. 14/266,560 incorporated herein by reference.

Still referring to FIG. 84, tips 815 of lateral extensions 816 can beused as a portion of a radial alignment, projection/receiver,arrangement providing for rotational alignment of the cartridge 801 witha portion of a housing (or access cover) in general accord with theprinciples described herein.

In FIG. 85, a plan view of cartridge 801 taken generally toward closedend piece 804 is provided. The closed end piece 804 includes amolded-in-place portion 804 m extending over media ends embeddedtherein. The center 804 c of end 804 is closed by central portion or end810 e of the preform 810.

Molded-in-place portion 804 includes a projection arrangement 804 pcomprising, in the example depicted, a segmented ring projecting towardthe viewer in FIG. 85. The projections 804 p can provide cushion with ahousing during installation. It is noted that the projection arrangement804 p can have alternate configurations, including a non-segmentedcircle.

Still referring to FIG. 85, at 804 x, end piece 804 can be provided witha radially interiorly directed, resistive, housing engagement featureanalogous to those described herein. It would typically have used a“compressive” such arrangement, comprising a portion of the samematerial from which molded-in-place portions 804 m of end cap 804 aremade.

Still referring to FIG. 85, attention is directed to projection 804 y.this projection can operate as a portion of a radial alignmentarrangement, in general accord with various descriptions herein, thealignment occurring between cartridge end 804 and an end portion of ahousing associated therewith.

In FIG. 86, a side elevational view of cartridge 801 is depicted.

In FIG. 87, a second side elevational view is depicted, taken generallytoward the right of FIG. 86.

For the particular arrangement depicted, each of the seal surfaces 805x, 805 i comprises six lobes alternating with six recesses, although thenumber can be varied. Further, in the example the various lobes andrecesses in each surface are symmetrically and evenly positioned, butalternatives are possible. It is noted that because, for the particularcartridge 801 depicted, the seal arrangement or seal projection 805 ismaintained a relatively constant thickness, the outward lobes 8051 onthe surface 805 x may be larger, i.e. configured to a larger radius,than the inward lobes 805 y of the inner surface 805 i.

C. Selected Variations in Sealing Engagement of the Cartridge with theHousing

Some selected variations in the manner in which a cartridge in generalaccord with FIGS. 83-87 seals to the housing can be understood from theschematic depictions FIGS. 101-105.

Referring to FIG. 101, at 850 a portion of a housing is shownschematically. The portion 850 includes a recess or groove 851positioned between outer and inner sidewalls 851 x and 851 i. The groove851 would be shaped and configured to receive, projecting therein, sealprojection 805 when the filter cartridge 801 is installed. Either orboth of surfaces 851 x, 851 i can be configured as a housing sealsurface, for resistive sealing engagement with respect to surfaces 805x, 805 i, respectively, on the cartridge 801, in a sealing manner. (Ifboth of sides 851 x, 851 i provide sealing, projection 805 may not needa seal support therein).

In FIG. 102, a variation in the arrangement of FIG. 101 is shown. Here,the outer wall 851 x of the groove 851 g is used as a housing sealingsurface. However, instead of a complete surface 851 i, analogous to FIG.101, various segments or projections 851 s are provided, for guiding thecartridge 801 but not providing a seal surface. The projections 851 scan be configured to engage (or alternately to be spaced from) portionsof surface 805 s, but not the entire surface. The number of projections,location of projections, and shape of projections can be varied.However, they can be useful as guides to facilitate installation.

In FIG. 103, a variation is shown in which guide projections areprovided for alignment with the outer seal surface 805 x, and wall 851 iis maintained for sealing engagement, in a sealing manner, with theinner seal surface 805 i of the cartridge 801.

In FIG. 104, the housing portion 850 is configured with only a portionhaving an outwardly directed seal surface 851 i, so that engagement withseal projection 805 will be with sealing occurring along the inner orradially inwardly directed surface 805 i.

In FIG. 105, a variation is shown in which the housing section 850 isconfigured with only a radially inwardly directed surface at 851 x toform a seal with the outwardly directed seal surface 805 x of sealprojection 805.

Of course, these variations can be used with a variety of sealconfigurations including being adapted for ones in which oppositesurfaces of the radial projection do not both have undulating (spacedlobes) configurations.

From the depiction and descriptions of FIGS. 101-105, a variety ofpossibilities can be understood. A radial seal arrangement on a filtercartridge can be configured to only seal in a radially outwardly facingmanner. It can be configured to only seal in a radially inwardly facingmanner. It can also be configured to seal along both inner and outersurfaces. With respect to the housing component, it can be configured toonly engage the outer surface, only engage the inner surface, to haveboth, or to have a housing seal surface that is engaged by only one ofthe radially directed surfaces on a sealing bulge, while having aprojection arrangement that either engages or aligns with an oppositesurface, whether that surface is configured as a sealing surface or not.

These variations can be implemented with a variety of arrangementsaccording to the present disclosure, including alternate onescharacterized herewith.

D. An Additional Air Cleaner Assembly and Features, FIGS. 88-100B

In FIGS. 88-100B, an additional air cleaner assembly (and components)according to the present disclosure is depicted. In FIG. 88, the aircleaner assembly is indicated generally at 900. The assembly 900 isdepicted with a filter cartridge (see FIG. 89 at 920) removed. Thus,what is viewable in FIG. 88 of the assembly 900 is housing 901. Thehousing 901 has opposite ends and includes a housing central portion 902having a first end 903 and an opposite second end 904. The first end903, in the assembly 900 depicted, includes a on end (in this instanceremovable) cover 903 a, secured in place thereon by latches 903 b. The(access) cover 903 a is depicted with a flow tube 905 thereon, typicallyconfigured as an (axial) outlet flow tube for the system.

End 904 for the assembly depicted is provided with a second housing endor end portion, cover or bottom 904 a thereon manufactured separatelyfrom central portion 902 and, in the example, non-removably securedthereto, for example snap-fit. However, end cover 904 e could beconfigured to be removable, using principles described above.

Referring to FIG. 88, mounting pad arrangements are depicted at 910. Oneof those, 910 b is shown positioned on housing end member 904 a; whereasanother 910 a is shown positioned on housing central portion 902. If endmember 904 a was made as a removable (access) cover, typically mountingpad 910 b would also be positioned on central portion 902, so that thecentral portion of the housing 901 would remain securely mounted inplace as the lower end or access cover 904 a is removed. However, sincethe particular end cover depicted 904 a is not configured as a removableaccess cover, but rather is non-removably mounted on housing centralsection 902, mounting pads 910 b can be positioned on the end 904 a.

Still referring to FIG. 88, the housing 901 includes, at the second orbase end, i.e. on end cover 904 a, a central projection 915. Thisprojection 915 will operate (as part of a projection/receiverarrangement) to receive thereover, a receiver, positioned in an end ofthe cartridge 920 (FIG. 89) when installed. This is described furtherbelow.

Referring to FIG. 88, projection 915 includes: a remote end 915 ehaving, in the example depicted, an optional central projection 915 aand an optional outer ring 915 r with an optional (end) receiving groove915 g positioned between projection 915 a and ring 915 r. The receivinggroove 915 g is positioned to receive, projecting therein, a centralaxial projection (or portion) of the cartridge 920, during installation.This is described further below.

For the particular projection 915 depicted, the receiving groove 945 gis non-circular, although an alternative is possible. In particular,central projection 915 a at end 915 e has a non-circular outerperimeter, in the example generally comprising a plurality of spaced,outwardly directed, lobes or projections having recesses therebetween.It is also noted that the outer ring 915 r has a generally non-circularprojection, in the example defining an inner surface with a plurality ofspaced, recess having inward lobes or projections therebetween. Theseare described further below, in connection with FIGS. 92 and 92A.

Referring still to FIG. 88, projection 915 a includes a base portion 915b. Positioned in part of base portion 815 b and extending upwardlytherefrom, is an optional radial alignment receiver, recess or receivingslot 915 s. The optional receiving slot 915 s is configured to receive,extending therein, a radial alignment, or locator projection on acartridge 920, when installed. This would operate as an optionalrotational alignment arrangement discussed below.

Projection 915 includes a central portion 915 c having a somewhatconical or tapering shape, but with a portion 915 d distorted inwardly,analogously to certain arrangements discussed above. This can facilitateinstallation of eccentric cartridges of the type characterized herein.

Still referring to FIG. 88 at 918, a second flow tube in housing 901 isdepicted, in this instance positioned on housing central portion 902.Flow tube 908 is configured generally as an inlet flow tube, an can beanalogous to arrangements previously discussed. It is depicted as aslanted, tangential, flow tube, although alternatives are possible.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 89. Here, the assembly 900 is depictedwith the access cover 903, FIG. 88, removed; and, with cartridge 920installed. Various portions viewable are schematic and shown incross-section, to facilitate understanding.

Attention is first directed to the cartridge 920. The cartridge 920generally comprises filter media 921 positioned surrounding an interior920 i. The filter media 921 may be pleated, or it can comprise alternatematerials. The filter media 921 generally extends between opposite firstand second ends 921 a, 921 b.

Positioned at first end 921 a is first end piece 923; and, positioned atsecond end 921 b is second end piece 924. For the embodiment depicted,the first end piece 923 is generally an open end piece having centralair flow aperture 923 o therethrough. Second end piece 924, on the otherhand, is typically a closed end piece, i.e. it has no central aperturetherethrough in communication with interior 920 i, although alternativesare possible.

Typically, the filter assembly 900 will be configured for “out-to-in”flow during filtering, although the principles can be applied withalternate arrangements Thus, in the example, aperture 923 o will be anoutlet aperture for filtered air, although, again, an alternative flowdirection can be used with principles described herein. The first endpiece 923 may be configured with a variety of features in accord withthe various embodiments depicted and described herein. The particularfirst end piece 923 depicted, is generally configured with a housingseal arrangement shaped and oriented for radially outwardly directedsealing, but alternatives are possible.

Thus, the example first end piece 923 includes a sealing bulge 923 b,having a radially (outwardly) directed or outer surface 923 x; and, aradially inwardly directed or inner surface 923 i. The outer surface 923x is configured as an outwardly directed radial sealing surface 923 s.The radially inner (or inwardly directed) surface 923 i is notconfigured as a seal surface, but it could be.

Although alternatives are possible, in the example depicted, the sealsurface 923 s is configured to form a non-circular seal, in extensionaround a central axis surrounded by the seal (or alternately stated inextension around the aperture 923 o). The particular non-circularpattern depicted, comprises a plurality of spaced, radially (outwardly)directed, lobes 923 p separated by a plurality of radial (outwardlyfacing, but inwardly directed) concave features or recesses 923 r.

Typically there are at least three lobes and three recesses, usually atleast four, and often a number within the range of 4-12, inclusiveusually 4-10, inclusive. The seal surface 923 s, then, can becharacterized as defining an undulating or serpentine shape, inextension around a central axis surrounded by the seal, with alternatinglobes and recesses being traced in the peripheral definition asextension around the axis is traced or followed.

Again, the inner surface 923 i, in the example shown, is not configuredas a sealing surface, but it could be, using principles generallydiscussed above in connection with FIGS. 83-87, and also herein inconnection with FIGS. 101-105.

For the particular example of FIG. 89, the surface 923 i does define anundulating or serpentine surface pattern as the peripheral definitionaround the central axis or aperture 923 o is followed or traced. Here,each of the radially inwardly directing lobes 923 p is opposite a recess923 r, and each of the concave sections or recesses 923 g in surface 923i is opposite an outward lobe 923 p. This provides for a sealing bulge923 p that is efficient with respect to seal material use. The sealmaterial of the bulge 923 p is generally molded-in-place as a portion ofmolded-in-place portion 923 m of end piece 923.

Still referring to FIG. 89, in general, the housing seal surface (orsurfaces) are positioned oriented in axial overlap with end 921 a of themedia, at a location between perimeters of the media. This is notrequired, but is typical in many applications.

Also, it is noted that the housing seal surface or surfaces in FIG. 89can be characterized as defining a seal perimeter definition in a sealplan generally perpendicular to a central axis surrounded by the seal.

The cartridge 920 can be provided with an optional outer linersurrounding the media 921 if desired. It can also be provided with anoptional pleat tip bead extending therearound. In the example depicted,the cartridge 920 includes both, the liner being indicated at 9201 andthe pleat tip bead 920 b. These may be as previously characterizedherein.

Still referring to FIG. 89, the cartridge 920 depicted includes asupport piece or preform 930 on which the media 921 is positioned. Thepreform 930 includes, in the example depicted, a central liner structure931, which is generally open or porous, around which the media 920 ispositioned. The liner structure 931 generally provides inner support tothe media 920.

The support 931 extends between opposite ends 932, 933. End 932generally includes thereon portions embedded within molded-in-placeportions 923 m of end piece 923. The molded-in-place portions includethe sealing bulge 923 b, as well as portions extending peripherally,(inwardly and outwardly) therefrom. The preform end 932 generallyincludes a portion extending at least partially across end 921 a of themedia 920 and having thereon one or more projections such as projection932 a, 932 b. Projection 932 a provides a support embedded withinsealing bulge 923 b, and will typically fit into a mold when the bulge923 b is molded-in-place thereon. Projection 932 b can be providingstrength to the portion of the end piece extending across end 921 a.

Still referring to FIG. 89, the cartridge 920 includes a member of afirst, non-seal, rotational alignment projection/receiver arrangementstherein, associated with end piece 923, positioned in the cartridgeinterior, and organized to provide for rotational indexing to accesscover 903 a, FIG. 88, in use. In FIG. 89, the first member of thisfirst, non-seal, radial alignment projection/receiver arrangementcomprises projections 931 p positioned adjacent (and projecting radiallyinwardly from a position adjacent) end piece 923. In the exampledepicted, the individual projections 931 p comprise portions oflongitudinal extensions 931 e.

Still referring to FIG. 89, end piece 924 comprises a molded-in-placeportion 924 m and a preform central projection/receiver portion 924 c.The portion 924 c defines a receiver space opposite cartridge interior920 i that functions as a receiver for engagement with the housing. Thecentral potion 824 c it is generally closed so as to prevent air flowtherethrough in communication with interior 920 i. Interaction betweenthe receiver portion 924 r of central portion 924 c, with the housing,is discussed further below.

Still referring to FIG. 89, the cartridge 920 is provided with aresistive (in the example compressive) radial engagement member orarrangement for engagement with the housing 901. In particular,molded-in-place portion 924 m includes a radially inwardly directedsection 924 i configured (analogously to similar features previouslydescribed for other embodiments) for engagement around base 915 b ofcentral projection 915. In the example, this resistive radial engagementmember or arrangement surrounds, an entrance to projection 924 c.

Still referring to FIG. 89, the housing 901 includes an ejection port940 therein, having a evacuator valve 941 positioned thereon. As withpreviously described arrangements since the assembly 900 is depictedconfigured for “out-to-in” flow during filtering, the evacuator port 940is in direct flow communication with a unfiltered air annulus 942 thatsurrounds the cartridge 920 in use. Thus, water and other material thatmay enter the housing interior through the inlet 918, FIG. 88 can drainor evacuate directly through port 940 and valve 941, without passagethrough the filter media 921.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 90. In FIG. 90, the assembly 900 isdepicted with a cartridge 920 positioned within the housing 901 and withaccess cover 903 a in place. It can be seen that the access cover 903 adefines, at 903 s, a housing seal surface for engagement with a radiallyoutwardly directed seal surface 923 s, FIG. 89, of the cartridge 920. Inorder to accommodate the non-circular shape, surface 903 s has a matingshape; in this instance, a plurality of outward lobes (recesses)surrounded by inwardly directed convex sections.

In FIG. 90, it can be seen that the access cover 903 a includes a secondmember of a non-seal rotational alignment projection/receiverarrangement at 948, configured for engagement with one or more of theprojections 931 p, when the access cover 903 a is appropriatelyrotationally aligned for sealing engagement with the cartridge 920. Inthe example depicted, the radially alignment projection/receiverarrangement comprises a receiver recess or slot 948 s that is configuredto only allow full engagement with cartridge 920 s by receiving one ofprojections 931 p therein. This can only occur when the access cover 903a has been appropriately rotationally aligned for proper sealingengagement between the seal bulge 923 p and the seal surface 903 s (orwhen the cartridge is restively aligned to engage the seal surface 903s).

Still referring to FIG. 90, it is noted that the bottom end 904 a forthe housing 901 is configured to have been made separately from centralsection 902 and to then be secured thereto in a manner that is notreadily separable. Again, it could be a removable member, secured bylatches, bolts or other connectors, if designed accordingly.

In FIG. 90, attention is directed to central projection/receiver portion924 c on the cartridge 920. It can be seen that this portion 924 cincludes an end, cap or end cap portion 924 n, which, in the exampledepicted, is generally circular in a cross-section perpendicularly to anaxis therethrough, whereas the projection 924 c includes a centralportion 924 t at a location between the cap 924 n and second end 921 bof the media, which is non-circular in cross-section. Alternatives arepossible, for example, both could be circular or both could benon-circular. However, the particular example depicted is convenient forassembly and manufacture, as well as implementation with certainpreferred features characterized herein.

In FIG. 90A, a bottom, inside, perspective view of the access cover 903a is depicted. Here, seal surface 903 s, and member 948 a with slot 948s are further viewable.

It is noted that, in general, when the cartridge 920 is as depicted witha radially directed housing seal, it is preferred that surface 903 x notbe available as a seal surface, since the access cover 903 a may bemanufactured to tolerances that would not allow for this. In order toinhibit inadvertent use as a seal surface, surface 903 x includestherein, recess 903 y.

It is also noted that the access cover 903 a can use, eitheralternatively or in addition to the latches (or alternate connectors)903 b, an optional snap-fit arrangement for engagement with a housingcentral port 902. An optional snap-fit receiver member to allow for thisis indicated generally FIG. 90A at 949. In the example depicted, therewould be three such members 949 spaced radially (typically evenly)around the access cover 903 a.

With respect to the engagement between the access cover 903 a and thehousing central portion 902, attention is directed to FIG. 90B. Here, itcan be seen that the housing central portion 902 is provided withoptional projections 950, positioned to be engaged by receivers 949 inthe access cover, for a snap-fit manner, when the access cover 903 a ispositioned. This can be an optional alternate connection mechanism 903 bor it can be used in association with connectors such as latches,depending on the system. It is noted that the snap-fit connection can bemade to be easy to separate or to be very difficult or virtuallyimpossible, depending on the circumstances, as desired.

Still referring to FIG. 90B, it is noted that bolt or alternateconnector arrangements can be used to provide for securing of the accesscover. An example of this option is provided by the indication of boltreceiver 951. More bolt receivers could be used. It is also noted thatthe shape of the access cover at 953, with the mating portion at 954 canbe used as an optional rotational alignment arrangement between theaccess cover 903 a and the housing central portion 902, if desired.

In FIG. 91, an additional assembly drawing is depicted, with selectedportions shown in cross-section. Here, cartridge 920 can be seeninstalled within housing 901, with the receiver 924 r projecting overthe projection 915. It is noted that one can see, through overlap in thedrawing, how the end cap portion 924 i would engage the base 915 bthrough a resistive (in the example compressive) arrangement, to inhibitcartridge 920 from being removed until adequate force is applied. Thiswould be a typical application analogous to those discussed previously.

In FIG. 92, a top perspective view of bottom section 904 a withprojection 915 is provided. In FIG. 92A, an enlarged fragmentary portionof projection 915 a is shown. Attention is directed to FIG. 92A.

Referring to FIG. 92A, what is viewable is end 915 e of projection 915.Center member 915 a and outer ring 915 r, separated by receiver groove915 g are shown. In general, groove 915 g is sized to receive projectingtherein, projection member on the cartridge 920 discussed below.

For the particular example depicted, groove 915 g does not have acircular shape, though it could be provided with a circular shape inalternate applications. Instead of a circular shape, the example groove915 g depicted has an optional serpentine or undulating shape, as aresult of the outer wall 915 r having inner projections 960 alternatingwith outer recesses 961; and, central portion 915 a having outerprojections 965 alternating with recesses 966. With this preferredoptional approach, the groove 915 g is configured so that a projectionon a cartridge can only be received therein, if it has a shape to mate.This can help ensure that the cartridge is a proper one for the systemintended. It can also help maintain the cartridge in a desiredrotational relationship with various portions of the housing, duringinstallation.

In FIG. 93, a cross-sectional view of cartridge 920 is shown, taken justabove central receiver 924 r. It can be seen that the filter media 921is depicted schematically as (optionally) pleated.

Generally, the receiver 924 r defines, on a surface opposite thecartridge interior 920 i, a receiver recess positioned to receive,projecting therein, projection 915 in the housing 902. In FIG. 89, thisinteraction is viewable. Also, typically on the surface of receiver 924r opposite the interior 920 i, cartridge central portion 924 c includesa central axial projection sized to project into groove 915 g. Thiscentral axial projection or projection member is shown in FIG. 89 at 924x.

Referring to FIG. 89, in general, the central axial projection 924 x issurrounded at least by a portion thereof, in the example depicted, by aportion of projection 924 p in the region of end piece or cap 924 n thathas a circular cross-section. Also, the projection 924 x can besufficiently long to project to a location surrounded by a portion ofprojection 924 c that does not have a circular cross-section.

In FIG. 94, a cross-sectional view is shown of a portion of thecartridge 920 engaging the housing bottom 904 a.

In FIG. 95, a cross-sectional view slightly lower than the view of FIG.94 is shown.

In FIG. 96, a top plan view of the projection 915 is shown. Attention isdirected to the slot 915 s, which is configured to receive, projectingtherein, a radial alignment projection on the closed end of the filtercartridge, when appropriate rotational alignment has occurred.

In FIG. 100, a perspective view of the cartridge 920 is shown, takentoward the closed end piece 924. A mating projection 970 can be seensized and located to engage slot 915 s, FIG. 96, as the cartridge engagethe housing. Also, central axial, in the example non-circular projection971 can be seen on receiver 924 r projecting in a direction away fromend piece 923 and oriented in the direction to project into groove 915g.

Typically projection 921 will define a solid wall around a receiver orrecess, but alternatives are possible.

In FIG. 97, an enlarged fragmentary view showing the engagement betweenthe projection 971 and the groove 915 g is shown.

In FIG. 98, a further enlargement is shown, also depicting projection971 receiving into groove 915 g.

In FIG. 99, still a further enlargement is shown in cross-section, inthis instance taken from a different rotational orientation.

In FIGS. 100A-100B, a support member 930 usable in the cartridge 920 isdepicted. It could be analogous to similar preform supports as discussedabove. The support member 930 can be preformed from a fairly rigidmaterial such as a rigid plastic, and then be used to position the mediatherearound and molding portions thereto, to form the cartridge 920. InFIG. 100A, the port 930 can be seen as having various features describedabove in connection with FIG. 89. Note the seal support 923 a secured toinner portion 980 by ribs 981. Member 923 a can be a support memberpositioned within sealing bulge 923 p, FIG. 89, to support the radiallyoutwardly directed seal surface 923 s, during installation.

In FIG. 100B, the support 930 is depicted in cross-section. Non-circularprojection 971 is viewable. Also viewable is locator fin 970.

Referring to FIGS. 100A-100B, it can be seen that the support 930 can beused to provide for various types of eccentricities described. Forexample, and referring to FIG. 100B, the seal support region 923 a canbe configured to have an eccentric definition with respect to a lowerend 985 of the support. Further, adjacent upper end 986, the support 930can have a region 987 that is surrounded by media in use, that iseccentric with respect to the lower end 985. Further, at the lower end988, projection 924 r can be provided with a base 988, that is eccentricwith respect to various features adjacent the upper end 986.

Thus, the support 930 can be configured to provide a cartridge, whenused in a cartridge, that has the various types of eccentricitiesdiscussed herein.

Still referring to the embodiment of FIGS. 88-100A, it is noted that theseal member depicted can be characterized as having a (non-circular)seal pattern in a plan generally parallel to an axis around which theseal is positioned; and, the central projection 971 can be characterizedas having a (non-circular) pattern in a plane surrounded by thatprojection 971. Those two planes may generally be parallel in manyapplications. Also, each may have the same number of lobes, when lobedarrangements are used; and, in some instance the lobes may “radiallyaligned.” By the term “radially aligned” as used in this context, it isnot meant that they are positioned vertically directly above oneanother, since typically they would have centers that are eccentric inmany applications. However, it is meant that relative to a central axis,the lobes of each (of the lobed housing seal member 923 s and centralaxial projection 971) may extend in generally the same direction, insuch applications.

It is noted that the filter cartridge may include more than one housingseal arrangement thereon. By the examples herein, that show only onearrangement, it is not meant to be indicated or suggested that otherhousing seal arrangements cannot be included.

In various ones of FIGS. 88-100B, example dimensions are provided asfollows: WI=56 mm; WJ=66 mm; and, WK=27.5 mm. Of course alternatedimensions can be used. The example dimensions are meant to indicate ausable arrangement, for a variety of applications, and to generallyindicate application or principles characterized herein.

It is noted that the features of the embodiment of FIGS. 88-100B can beimplemented in a variety of constructions having different specificdetail, including various arrangements described herein with respect toother drawings and embodiments. There is no specific requirement thateach and every embodiment practiced have all of the specific features ofany selected embodiment depicted herein, in order to obtain someadvantage.

X. Selected Summary Observations

Herein, a variety of features, techniques, and arrangements usable inconnection with filter cartridges and/or filter assemblies aredescribed. The features are particularly well-adapted for use witharrangements configured for use as air cleaner assemblies, for exampleto filter air intake for internal combustion engines used on vehicles orother equipment. However, the techniques can be applied in otherapplications.

In general, the filter cartridges are characterized as having featuresappropriate for selected interaction with housing components. Aplurality of the features characterized, relate to providingeccentricity between opposite ends of the cartridge (or features atopposite ends of the cartridge). This eccentricity can provide foradvantageous cartridges with respect to installation and use in ahousing.

A typical filter cartridge characterized herein has filter mediasurrounding an open filter interior, and first and second ends. A firstend piece is positioned at the first end of the media. The first endpiece has a flow aperture therethrough. A second end piece is positionedat the second end of the filter media. In many typical applications, asecond end piece is closed, i.e. it has no aperture therethrough.

The eccentricity between the first and second ends of the filtercartridge can be provided in a variety of ways. In certain examplescharacterized herein, the filter media defines a first media outerperimeter at a location adjacent the first end piece and the filtermedia second end defines a second media outer perimeter at a locationadjacent the second end piece. The two media outer perimeters areeccentrically aligned with one another. An example is depicted, in whichthis is accomplished by not using conical media, but rather by usingmedia which defines approximately the same size perimeter adjacent thefirst and second ends.

Alternate approaches to defining the eccentricity are provided. Anexample includes relating an eccentricity of a feature at one end to anouter perimeter at the other; or, relating the eccentricity between theouter perimeters of the cartridge at each end. An approach ischaracterized in which a radial seal member is provided at the open end,characterizing a pattern eccentric with respect to a feature at theopposite end of the cartridge; whether that feature be the outerperimeter of the second end piece, the outer perimeter of the mediaadjacent the second end piece, or another feature.

A variety of cartridges are depicted in which the second end pieceincludes a receiver projection extending into an open filter. Thisreceiver projection defines a receiver recess on an opposite sidethereof, from the open filter interior.

This receiver projection can be provided with a variety of shapes. Itcan be in an example shape provided, in which this receiver has an endcap or end piece, remote the second end of the media, and toward thefirst end of the media, which is generally circular in perimetercross-dimension, but which also has a portion lower than the circularend piece or end cap, which is non-circular.

In certain examples characterized, this central receiver includesthereon, a central axial projection, on a surface of the centralprojection opposite the interior of the cartridge, and generallyprojecting away from the first end of the media and the first end cap.An example central axial projection is shown and described, whichgenerally comprises a wall, typically a solid wall (i.e. a wall with noapertures completely therethrough), surrounding a central recess orreceiving area. The solid wall can have a groove therein, i.e. be doublesided. In the example depicted, this wall is non-circular, i.e.undulates in shape in manners defined herein. In general, then, it canbe provided to define a perimeter, in a plane perpendicular to a centralaxis therethrough, that is non-circular.

Herein, an example filter cartridge is characterized in which a housingseal arrangement on the first end piece is non-circular, in a projectionplane perpendicular to a central axis of the seal. In the exampledepicted, the plane of the central axis of the seal is generallyparallel to a plane through a central axial projection on the outsidesurface (surface opposite the cartridge interior) of the receiverprojection at the second end of the cartridge.

Herein, the cartridge second end is sometimes characterized as having aresistive housing engagement member thereon, in certain advantageousapplications. This resistive housing engagement member can comprise acompressive arrangement, for example formed from molded-in-placecompressible materials at the second end piece. Generally, thisresistive housing engagement member will define a perimeter engagementpattern in a plane orthogonal to a central axis second end piece. It canbe positioned to align with an entry into a central receiver at thesecond end. It can be generally a circular pattern or non-circular,depending on the application. An example is depicted which uses an ovalengagement pattern, that engages a base portion of a projection in ahousing, as that projection is extended into a receiver recess on thecartridge.

In arrangements characterized herein, a radial locator projectionarrangement is positioned on the cartridge at an end adjacent the firstend piece with the open aperture. The radial locator arrangement isgenerally a radially inwardly projecting radial locator projectionarrangement, comprising one or more projections oriented to engage anaccess cover or other portion of the housing to achieve desired radialalignment, in use.

Also, a radially indexing locating arrangement is depicted inassociation with the second end piece at the second end of thecartridge. This radial indexing locator arrangement, in an example,comprises a single fin or radial inwardly directed projection member,configured to extend into a receiving slot or recess on a projection inthe housing, as the cartridge is engaged therewith.

Herein, a variety of housing seal arrangements are characterized,typically positioned on the first end cap and at a location around theaperture therethrough. Circular ones can be used. The housing sealarrangement can be a perimeter seal arrangement around an outside of thefirst end piece, or it can be alternately positioned. In certain examplearrangements depicted, the housing seal arrangement is oriented radiallyinwardly from the outer perimeter of the first end piece at a locationin axial overlap with the first end of the media. Example arrangementsare depicted, which can be either radially inwardly or radiallyoutwardly projecting seal surfaces. Non-circular configurations arecharacterized as examples. Example non-circular arrangements arecharacterized which comprise a plurality of lobes separated by recesses,as the seal pattern is traced around the seal surface.

It is noted that many of the techniques described herein can be appliedin arrangements in which the cartridge does not possess eccentricitybetween the media at opposite ends and/or portions of the end pieces atopposite ends of the cartridge. That is, selected features characterizedherein can be applied in other applications as well, although they werespecifically adapted to be particularly advantageous when used with acartridge that is eccentric in some fashion, as characterized herein.

Herein, various advantageous liner supports usable in filter cartridgesare described. A typical liner support would have a first liner supportsection and a second liner end. In an example depicted, first and secondliner ends are eccentrically aligned with respect to one another, andthe liner support is positioned in the cartridge of the filter mediasurrounding it. The liner support can be positioned to include, at oneend thereof, an end member that extends at least in partial axialoverlap with an end of the media. This first end member may beconfigured with a seal support member thereon, for example secured tothe inner liner section by spaced extensions. The seal support can beprovided in a variety in shapes, including circular and non-circularones.

The liner support can be provided with a receiver projection at a secondend thereof, having selected features as characterized herein.

According to the present disclosure, air cleaner assemblies are alsoprovided. The air cleaner assemblies will typically comprise a housinghaving at least one access cover, an air flow inlet and an air flowoutlet. A filter cartridge in general accord with one or more of thedefinitions characterized herein, would be operably positioned withinthe housing and be releasably sealed thereto. The cartridge can be sizedsuch that it is a serviceable part, that can be removed from andreplaced in the housing.

Herein, with respect to the various filter cartridges characterized, thecartridges are described as having a housing seal arrangement, includinga housing seal member thereon. It is not meant to be suggested that theprinciples herein require a single housing seal member in all instances.Indeed, more than one seal member could be used, sealing to differentportions of the housing. Also, when more than one seal member is used onthe same cartridge, they can be of the same or different types.

A variety of housing features are characterized, generally provided forinteraction with various cartridge features described herein. Thesefeatures include: features for sealing engagement by a housing sealmember on a cartridge; features for rotational alignment at one or bothof the cartridge ends; and, projection/receiver arrangements forengagement with projection/receiver arrangements on the cartridge.

Housings are characterized in which a single access cover is positioned,but alternatives are also characterized in which each of two oppositeaccess covers are positioned on the housing.

A variety of arrangements relating to flow tube configurations aredescribed. In the examples depicted, a first flow tube is positioned asan axial flow tube at an end of the housing, typically as an outlet flowtube. Also, generally, a second flow tube is positioned in the side ofthe housing, usually for inlet flow. Preferred shapes and orientationsof the various flow tubes are characterized.

Herein, example housings are characterized, which include an ejectionport thereon, preferably in direct flow communication with an unfilteredair portion internally of the housing (typically externally of thecartridge).

It should be understood that air cleaner assemblies can be implementedwith selected ones of the various features characterized herein, withavoidance of certain other features depicted in the specific examples.That is, there is no specific requirement that an air cleaner assembly,housing, or cartridge have all of the features characterized herein in agiven embodiment, in order to obtain some advantage according to thepresent disclosure.

What is claimed:
 1. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filtermedia surrounding an open filter interior; (i) the filter media havingfirst and second ends; (b) a first end piece positioned at the first endof the filter media; (i) the first end piece having a flow aperturetherethrough; (c) a housing seal arrangement comprising a releasableseal positioned on the first end piece; (d) a second end piecepositioned at the second end of the filter media; (i) the second endpiece is closed, and has no aperture therethrough, in direct flowcommunication with the open filter interior; (ii) the second end pieceincludes a receiver projection extending into the open filter interior adistance, from the filter media second end toward the filter media firstend, corresponding to at least 10% of a distance from the filter mediasecond end to the filter media first end; (A) the receiver projectiondefining a receiver recess at an opposite side thereof, from the openfilter interior; (e) the filter media first end defining a first mediaend outer perimeter at a location adjacent the first end piece; (f) thefilter media second end defining a second media end outer perimeter at alocation adjacent the second end piece; (i) the first and second mediaouter perimeters being eccentrically aligned with respect to oneanother; and, (ii) the first media end outer perimeter being within90%-110% of the second media end outer perimeter.
 2. An air filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the seal member comprises aradially directed seal member.
 3. An air filter cartridge according toclaim 2 wherein: (a) the radially directed seal member comprises anoutwardly directed radial seal member.
 4. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the seal member comprises anon-circular seal member.
 5. An air filter cartridge according to claim1 wherein: (a) the first media end outer perimeter being within 95%-105%of the second media end outer perimeter.
 6. An air filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the first media end outer perimeterbeing within 98%-102% of the second media end outer perimeter.
 7. An airfilter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the first end pieceouter perimeter and the second end outer perimeter have differentshapes.
 8. An air filter cartridge according to claim 7 wherein: (a) thefirst end piece outer perimeter and the second end outer perimeter havenoncircular shapes.
 9. An air filter cartridge according to claim 8wherein: (a) the first end piece outer perimeter and the second endouter perimeter have oval shapes.
 10. An air filter cartridge accordingto claim 1 wherein: (a) the receiver projection extends into the openfilter interior a distance, from the filter media second end toward thefilter media first end, corresponding to at least 20% of the distancefrom the filter media second end to the filter media first end.
 11. Anair filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the receiverprojection extends into the open filter interior a distance, from thefilter media second end toward the filter media first end, correspondingto 25-60% of the distance from the filter media second end to the filtermedia first end.
 12. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1wherein: (a) the receiver projection extends into the open filterinterior a distance, from the filter media second end toward the filtermedia first end, a distance of at least 80 mm.
 13. An air filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the receiver projectionextends into the open filter interior a distance, from the filter mediasecond end toward the filter media first end, a distance of 100-280 mm.14. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the firstend piece having a first end piece outer perimeter, the second end piecehaving a second end piece outer perimeter, and the first end piece outerperimeter and the second end piece outer perimeter are differentlysized.
 15. An air filter cartridge according to claim 14 wherein: (a)the first end piece outer perimeter is larger than the second end outerperimeter.
 16. An air filter cartridge according to claim 14 wherein:(a) the second end piece outer perimeter is larger than the first endouter perimeter.
 17. An air filter cartridge according to claim 1wherein: (a) the housing seal member comprises an integral portion of amolded-in-place portion of the first end piece.
 18. An air filtercartridge according to claim 3 wherein: (a) the outwardly directedradial seal member defines a seal surface having at least threeprojection sections with recesses therebetween, in a direction around,and relative to, a central axis surrounded by the seal surface.
 19. Anair filter cartridge according to claim 1 including: (a) a seal supportmember embedded with the housing seal member.
 20. An air filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) a liner support including afirst end member in axial overlap with the media first end; (i) theliner support including a non-circular seal support therein and embeddedwith the housing seal member.
 21. A filter cartridge according to claim1 wherein: (a) the receiver projection of the second end piece has aportion with a non-circular cross-sectional shape in a planeperpendicular to a direction of extension of the media.
 22. A filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the receiver projection hasa shape with: (i) a cap portion remote from the second end of the media;and, (ii) a base portion extending between the cap portion and alocation adjacent the second end of the media; the base portion having acentral section with a non-circular cross-sectional shape.
 23. A filtercartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the second end pieceincludes a resistive housing engagement member.
 24. A filter cartridgeaccording to claim 23 wherein: (a) the resistive housing engagementmember, on the second end piece, is a compressive, resistive, housingengagement member.
 25. A filter cartridge according to claim 24 wherein:(a) the resistive housing engagement member, on the second end piece,defines a non-circular engagement pattern.
 26. A filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the second end piece includes an outersurface portion having a central axial projection thereon projecting ina direction away from the open filter interior and the first end piece.27. A filter cartridge according to claim 26 wherein: (a) the centralaxial projection surrounds a central receiver space.
 28. A filtercartridge according to claim 27 wherein: (a) the central axialprojection has a non-circular surface in extension around a receiverspace.
 29. A filter cartridge according to claim 28 wherein: (a) thecentral axial projection has a shape, in extension around a receiverspace, having an outer surface comprising a plurality of radiallyoutwardly projecting lobes separated by recesses.
 30. An air cleanerassembly comprising: (a) a housing having: at least one access cover; anair flow inlet; and, an air flow outlet; (i) the housing includes aguide projection thereon; and, (b) a filter cartridge operablypositioned within the housing and releasably sealed thereto, wherein theair filter cartridge comprises: (i) a filter media surrounding an openfilter interior; (A) the filter media having first and second ends; (ii)a first end piece positioned at the first end of the filter media; (B)the first end piece having a flow aperture therethrough; (iii) a housingseal arrangement comprising a releasable seal positioned on the firstend piece; (iv) a second end piece positioned at the second end of thefilter media; (A) the second end piece is closed, and has no aperturetherethrough, in direct flow communication with the open filterinterior; (B) the second end piece includes a receiver projectionextending into the open filter interior a distance, from the filtermedia second end toward the filter media first end, corresponding to atleast 10% of a distance from the filter media second end to the filtermedia first end; (1) the receiver projection defining a receiver recessat an opposite side thereof, from the open filter interior; (v) thefilter media first end defining a first media end outer perimeter at alocation adjacent the first end piece; (vi) the filter media second enddefining a second media end outer perimeter at a location adjacent thesecond end piece; (A) the first and second media outer perimeters beingeccentrically aligned with respect to one another; and, (B) the firstmedia end outer perimeter being within 90%-110% of the second media endouter perimeter.
 31. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filtermedia surrounding an open filter interior; (i) the filter media havingfirst and second ends; (b) a first end piece positioned at the first endof the filter media; (i) the first end piece having a flow aperturetherethrough; (c) a housing seal arrangement comprising a releasableseal positioned on the first end piece including a non-circular sealmember; (d) a second end piece positioned at the second end of thefilter media; (i) the second end piece is closed, and has no aperturetherethrough, in direct flow communication with the open filterinterior; (ii) the second end piece includes a receiver projectionextending into the open filter interior a distance, from the filtermedia second end toward the filter media first end, corresponding to atleast 10% of a distance from the filter media second end to the filtermedia first end; (A) the receiver projection defining a receiver recessat an opposite side thereof, from the open filter interior; (e) thefilter media first end defining a first media end outer perimeter at alocation adjacent the first end piece; and, (f) the filter media secondend defining a second media end outer perimeter at a location adjacentthe second end piece; (i) the first and second media outer perimetersbeing eccentrically aligned with respect to one another; and, (ii) thefirst media end outer perimeter being within 90%-110% of the secondmedia end outer perimeter.